Mark releases 'My Friend' on the 10th... First new song since establishing Upper Room

Mark Lee is releasing his new song ″My Friend″ for the first time since leaving SM Entertainment and NCT. The single will be released on the 10th at 1 PM on domestic and international music platforms. This is the first music he is presenting after establishing the creative company Upper Room, marking his first official activity as an independent artist. ″My Friend″ is a medium-tempo pop song featuring a nostalgic guitar loop as the main theme. The song reflects on the meaning of love and captures the moment of moving past one phase and chapter toward a new beginning. Mark participated directly in the entire process of writing, composing, and arranging the song. The music video was produced with minimal CG and artificial effects, focusing on real spaces and people. The direction was handled by Gus Black, who directed music videos for American singer-songwriter sombr. This music video continues the ″Back to Basic″ direction that Mark has been pursuing. Earlier this year, Mark ended his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment and withdrew from NCT 127 and NCT Dream. In June, he established Upper Room and began activities as a one-person agency. Additionally, Mark expanded communication channels by introducing ″MARK’s Voice Mailbox,″ the fan communication platform Laylo, and Weverse membership to interact more with fans.