Mark Lee leaves NCT, ends contract with SM Entertainment after 10 years

In a major development for K-pop fans, Mark Lee from NCT has officially stepped away from the group. The 26-year-old rapper and singer, originally from Canada and now based in South Korea, revealed the news through a handwritten letter shared on social media. The announcement confirms that Mark Lee leaves NCT, including its sub-units NCT 127 and NCT Dream.

Bringing an end to his decade-long journey with SM Entertainment, Mark Lee’s departure reshapes the group’s lineup. NCT 127 will now continue as a seven-member team featuring Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, and Haechan. Meanwhile, NCT Dream will move forward with six members, Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung.

Opening up about his decision, Mark Lee reflected on a long-held personal dream. In his letter, he wrote, “I know this might feel sudden to everyone. Since my trainee days, or perhaps even before, I’ve always carried a dream in my heart. I wanted to travel around busking with an acoustic guitar and loved writing in English so much that I even dreamed of becoming a writer. Though I was too young to fully grasp or visualize that dream, my love for music and the stage led me to audition in Canada 14 years ago, and SM Entertainment became the start of my musical journey with NCT.”

He further shared that the thought of stepping away had been on his mind for some time, especially as his contract reached its conclusion. As he now transitions into a solo path, he added, “I became curious about the exact form of that dream and wanted to dive into it wholeheartedly. I wanted to truly find and achieve what my music or ‘fruit’ would be and how to present it to the world.”

While expressing gratitude to SM Entertainment, Mark Lee admitted he feels “eternally sorry and grateful,” acknowledging the importance of the journey while also recognising the need to move forward. Reassuring fans, he promised, “I promise to work my hardest to become a better version of Mark when I greet you all anew.” He also conveyed heartfelt thanks to fans for their unwavering support throughout his journey.

Following the announcement, SM Entertainment released an official statement addressing Mark Lee’s exit. The company said, “After a long period of in-depth discussions with Mark regarding the direction of his future activities and following adequate conversations between both parties, we came to a mutual agreement to conclude his exclusive contract as of April 8.”

The agency further acknowledged his decade-long contribution, adding, “Since debuting in 2016 as part of NCT, Mark has demonstrated outstanding abilities not only in group promotions but also as a solo artist, showing remarkable activities over the past 10 years.”

To catch the latest updates in the music world, head to Gaana.com now!