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Mark shocked the K-pop world on April 3 by announcing his departure from SM Entertainment after an incredible 10 years with NCT. The founding member’s emotional handwritten letter reveals his future plans beyond the group.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Departure Date: Contract ends April 8, 2026, after 10 years with SM Entertainment
- Impact: Mark leaves both NCT 127 and NCT DREAM simultaneously
- Reason: Pursuing personal artistic dream with acoustic guitar and writing aspirations
- Member Response: All NCT members gave their full support for his decision
Mark’s Emotional Departure From K-pop’s Biggest Group
Mark Lee sent shockwaves through the K-pop industry on April 3, 2026. SM Entertainment and Mark made a mutual agreement to end his exclusive contract effective April 8. The Canadian-born rapper debuted as part of NCT U on April 9, 2016, fulfilling exactly 10 years with the agency. Mark appeared in both NCT 127 and NCT DREAM, serving as the latter group’s leader. His exit marks a significant moment for one of SM’s most celebrated artists.
This wasn’t a sudden decision, according to Mark’s heartfelt statement. The 26-year-old rapper and vocalist spent considerable time soul-searching about his future path. Despite the shock value, SM Entertainment expressed nothing but gratitude for his contributions. The agency praised Mark’s outstanding abilities as both a group member and solo artist over his remarkable decade-long journey.
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A Dream Revealed: Beyond Music Industry Expectations
Mark’s decision reflects deeper personal ambitions that extend far beyond traditional K-pop stardom. His handwritten letter, shared via Instagram, reveals he’s always dreamed of traveling with an acoustic guitar and busking on streets worldwide. Beyond music, Mark expressed a passion for writing in English, even considering becoming an author. These weren’t recent thoughts, he explained, but dreams he carried since before his audition in Canada 14 years ago.
The artist explained that after 10 years of experiencing the world at its fullest through NCT’s global tours and promotions, he needed to explore what his true artistic purpose could be. He described it as finding the “fully realized shape” of his original vision and devotion to his music. Mark’s transparency about pursuing a more independent, experimental creative path sets his departure apart from typical K-pop industry transitions.
How NCT 127 and NCT DREAM Will Continue
| Group | New Member Count | Remaining Members |
| NCT 127 | 7 members | Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, Haechan |
| NCT DREAM | 6 members | Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, Jisung |
SM Entertainment confirmed both groups will continue with restructured lineups. NCT 127 will operate with 7 members, removing Mark from the ensemble while maintaining its core identity. NCT DREAM shifts to 6 members, losing its leader but keeping the sub-unit intact. Members across both groups expressed their full support for Mark’s decision, according to his statement. Even the youngest members acknowledged his leadership and wished him well on his new chapter.
“In the end, every single member, without exception, told me they support me. I’ll feel sorry for the rest of my life, and more than anything, I’m grateful.”
— Mark Lee, via handwritten letter to fans
From SM Rookies to Solo Dreams: A 14-Year Journey Concludes
Mark’s journey with SM Entertainment actually extends beyond his 10 years in NCT. He was selected through a global audition in 2012 while residing in Canada, making his relationship with SM span more than 14 years total. This extended history makes his departure even more significant within the agency. He thanked everyone from training staff to executives for helping him grow into the artist he became over nearly a decade and a half.
Despite the emotional weight of leaving, Mark emphasized gratitude throughout his statement. He acknowledged that his decision might feel shocking or hurtful to devoted fans who knew him only as “NCT’s Mark.” His focus on expressing appreciation rather than grievance suggests a mature, considered approach to this major career transition. Mark promised fans they would see him again in the future “with a new side of myself.”
What Does Mark’s Solo Future Hold for K-pop Fans?
The K-pop industry watches closely as Mark prepares for life beyond the group structure that defined his professional identity. His emphasis on acoustic guitar, busking, and English writing suggests a significantly different musical direction than NCT’s polished, high-production choreography-driven approach. Whether Mark will pursue independent releases, start his own label, or take a complete break remains unknown. His mysterious hints about discovering his true artistic “fruit” leave fans speculating.
One certainty emerges from Mark’s letter: this departure reflects genuine passion rather than industry politics or conflict. Members cried while hearing his decision, and the entire company gave him their blessing. As Mark begins this unpredictable next chapter, the K-pop community prepares for a very different version of one of its most beloved international artists.
Sources
- SM Entertainment – Official statement on Mark’s contract termination on April 3, 2026
- Soompi – Comprehensive coverage of Mark’s handwritten letter to fans with full translation
- The Korea Times – Analysis of the departure and its impact on NCT group restructuring
