NCT’s Mark to Depart All Units and SM Entertainment: “A New Chapter Begins”

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the global music industry, Mark Lee, the cornerstone of the multi-national group NCT, has officially announced his departure from SM Entertainment and all affiliated sub-units. The transition, effective April 8, 2026, follows a decade of record-breaking activity and marks the end of his 10-year exclusive contract.

SM Entertainment Confirms Mutual Parting

In a formal statement released today, SM Entertainment revealed that the decision was reached after “prolonged and sincere deliberations” regarding the artist’s future.

“Since his debut in 2016, Mark has shown extraordinary talent as both a group member and a solo artist. We are deeply grateful for the precious decade we have spent together and will wholeheartedly cheer for him as he embarks on this new leap forward.”

The New Face of NCT 127 and NCT DREAM

With Mark’s exit, the sub-units he helped build will transition into new fixed lineups:

• NCT 127: Will continue as a 7-member group (Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, Haechan).
• NCT DREAM: Will continue as a 6-member group (Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, Jisung).

Mark’s Heartfelt Letter: “From NCT to My True Self”

Shortly after the official announcement, Mark shared a poignant, handwritten letter on social media. He reflected on his journey from a young trainee who auditioned in Canada 14 years ago to becoming a global icon.

“I know this news is sudden,” Mark wrote. “But I have always held a dream close to my heart—to dive into a more concrete version of myself. My members have all supported this ‘new dive’ I want to take, and I will always love and root for NCT.” He hinted at a simpler musical future, mentioning his early love for busking with an acoustic guitar and his passion for writing.

What’s Next for Mark?

While specific future plans haven’t been finalized, industry insiders suggest that Mark is looking toward global solo ventures that prioritize his identity as a singer-songwriter and producer. Having already achieved “Million Seller” status with his solo debut The Firstfruit in 2025, the 26-year-old artist is expected to be the subject of a massive bidding war among international labels.

Editor’s Insights: Mark Lee’s “Grand Graduation” from the Neo City Era

The announcement on April 3, 2026, that Mark Lee will officially depart SM Entertainment and all NCT units on April 8 marks the end of an unprecedented era in K-pop history. As the “founding father” of the NCT system having debuted in NCT U, NCT 127, and NCT DREAM all within the same year of 2016 Mark’s departure is more than just a contract expiration; it is the closing of a 10-year chapter that defined the “Limitless” expansion of Hallyu.

By choosing to walk away at the 10-year mark to pursue a “busking-inspired” solo journey, Mark is reclaiming his identity from the grueling multi-unit schedule that famously earned him the title of “the hardest working man in K-pop.” His handwritten letter, which hints at a return to his roots with an acoustic guitar and a focus on songwriting, suggests that the “Mark Lee” we see in 2026 will be a far more introspective, folk-leaning artist compared to the high-octane rapper we’ve known. For SM Entertainment, this is a critical test of the “post-Mark” NCT structure, as the group must now prove it can maintain its global momentum without its most iconic “all-rounder” bridge.