Ten, a member of K-pop boy band WayV and NCT / Xportsnews
Ten, a member of K-pop boy group NCT, has parted ways with SM Entertainment after his contract expired Wednesday.
SM said both parties decided not to renew the contract following in-depth discussions with the artist about his career path. The agency said it plans to coordinate with Ten so he can continue participating in activities with NCT and one of its subunits, WayV.
Ten addressed fans in a message released Monday following the announcement.
“Since debuting with NCT U in 2016, the time I was able to meet you through NCT and WayV has been filled with truly precious and happy memories in my life,” Ten said.
He said the decision followed personal reflection as he approached a new stage in his life.
“As time passed and I reached the point of turning 30, I found myself asking new questions about who I am,” he said. “After much thought, I felt a desire to take on new challenges in a new environment.”
Ten said he reached his decision after extensive discussions with those around him.
“After many conversations and deep consideration with the members and SM staff, I decided to conclude my exclusive contract with the company,” he said.
He acknowledged the uncertainty of his departure but said he intends to move forward with resolve.
“I know this choice was not an easy one, and I understand that the direction of my life could change significantly from here,” he said. “But I will take responsibility for my decision and move forward doing my best, without regrets.”

Ten, a member of K-pop boy band NCT, posted a message to fans on social media. Captured from Ten’s social media account
SM said it will continue to support Ten’s participation in NCT and WayV’s future activities.
Below is the full statement from SM Entertainment:
Hello. This is SM Entertainment.
We would like to sincerely thank all the fans who have shown WayV so much interest and love.
After in-depth discussions with Ten regarding the direction of his future activities, we would like to inform you that his exclusive contract has concluded as of April 8. In addition, we plan to coordinate so that Ten can continue to participate in WayV and NCT group activities in the future.
We express our gratitude to Ten, who has shown outstanding capabilities not only through group activities since debut but also as a solo artist, and we sincerely support his new beginning.
We will continue to provide our full support for the activities of the WayV members, and for the fans who support WayV, we will do our very best.
Thank you.
This article from Xportsnews is adapted by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.koreatimes.co.kr ’














