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Mark Lee Departs NCT, Ends Decade-Long Contract with SM Entertainment

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, April 3rd 2026 at 9:47 GMT by Teen Vogue
      Locale: KOREA REPUBLIC OF

Seoul, South Korea - April 3rd, 2026 - In a move that has sent ripples through the K-pop world, Mark Lee has announced his departure from NCT and the end of his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment after a decade-long tenure. The announcement, made via a heartfelt letter posted on Lee's Instagram account earlier today, signals the end of an era for both the artist and the group that launched him into international stardom.

Lee's decision, described as a culmination of careful consideration, represents a desire for artistic independence and personal growth. While not a complete severing of ties with NCT, his exit from the exclusive contract opens the door for Mark to explore new creative avenues and pursue opportunities outside the structured framework of SM Entertainment. The move highlights a growing trend within the K-pop industry: a shift towards artists asserting greater control over their careers and charting their own paths, even after achieving success within established agencies.

Mark first joined SM Entertainment as a trainee in 2016, quickly establishing himself as a multi-talented performer capable of excelling in both rapping and singing. He debuted as a member of NCT Dream in 2018, captivating audiences with his dynamic stage presence and youthful energy. He subsequently became a key member of the unit NCT 127, further cementing his position as a prominent figure within the expansive NCT universe. His versatility allowed him to contribute significantly to the diverse sound and concepts of both sub-units, proving instrumental to their success.

In his Instagram letter, Lee expressed deep gratitude towards SM Entertainment for the opportunities afforded to him, acknowledging the support and guidance that shaped his career. He also extended a heartfelt thank you to NCTzens, the devoted fanbase that has been instrumental in his journey, promising that despite his changing contractual status, his connection to the group and its fans remains unwavering. He emphasized that he doesn't view this as a farewell, but rather a transition - a chance to redefine his role within the NCT framework.

SM Entertainment corroborated Lee's announcement with a formal statement, confirming the mutual agreement and expressing their full support for his future endeavors. The company acknowledged Mark's contributions to NCT and expressed optimism for his continued success. The relatively amicable nature of the departure suggests a professional and respectful understanding between the artist and the agency, a welcome contrast to some of the more contentious exits seen in the industry.

The implications of Mark's departure extend beyond his individual career. NCT, known for its unique and complex unit system, faces a period of adjustment. While the group is designed to be flexible, losing a member with Mark's experience and skillset will undoubtedly necessitate strategic planning for future releases and performances. Industry analysts predict SM Entertainment will likely focus on promoting existing members and potentially introducing new talent to maintain the group's momentum. The future direction of both NCT Dream and NCT 127 will be closely watched by fans and industry observers alike.

This departure follows a pattern observed in recent years within the K-pop landscape, with artists such as Jay Park and Jessica Jung blazing trails by pursuing independent ventures after achieving prominence under major labels. The increasing willingness of artists to prioritize creative control and financial independence signals a maturation of the industry and a growing demand for artist-centric management. It's a sign that the power dynamic is slowly shifting, offering artists more agency over their careers.

Mark's next steps remain largely unknown, though speculation is rife regarding potential solo projects, collaborations, and ventures into acting or production. He has hinted at a desire to explore different musical genres and experiment with new artistic expressions. Regardless of his future path, Mark Lee's legacy as a founding member and integral part of NCT is secure. His departure marks not an end, but a turning point - a new chapter in the career of a talented artist poised to make his mark on the global stage.