After a decade of defining moments, Mark Lee<\/span><\/span><\/strong> is officially stepping into a new chapter.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n On 3 April<\/strong>, SM Entertainment<\/span><\/span><\/strong> confirmed that the artist will be concluding his exclusive contract on 8 April<\/strong>, marking his departure from NCT<\/span><\/span><\/strong> and all its sub-units, including NCT 127<\/strong> and NCT DREAM<\/strong>.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n According to the agency, the decision came after \u201ca long period of in-depth discussions\u201d regarding the direction of Mark\u2019s future activities. The company also expressed gratitude for the past 10 years, highlighting his impact both as a group member and solo artist.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n Moving forward, NCT 127 will continue as a seven-member group, while NCT DREAM will promote with six members.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/p>\n Since debuting in 2016 with NCT U<\/strong>, Mark has been one of the group\u2019s most recognisable and versatile members \u2014 known for his rap, songwriting, and presence across multiple units.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n In a heartfelt handwritten letter shared with fans, the artist reflected on his journey, \u201cI think I\u2019ve truly, truly been nothing but happy.\u201d<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n Mark revealed that beyond the stage, he has long carried a personal dream \u2014 one that predates his idol career. From busking with an acoustic guitar to writing in English, the singer shared his desire to explore music in a more personal, fully realised way.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n \u201cAs this is the time when my 10-year contract is coming to an end\u2026 I wanted to dive in and devote myself to it properly,\u201d he wrote.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n The letter also spotlighted the emotional weight behind the decision. Mark expressed deep appreciation for his fellow members, noting that every single one supported his choice \u2014 something he says he\u2019ll \u201cfeel grateful for the rest of [his] life.\u201d<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n He extended thanks to SM Entertainment staff, mentors, and most importantly, fans \u2014 affectionately known as Czennies<\/strong> \u2014 who have supported him since his trainee days.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n \u201cI want to say as strongly as I can: thank you\u2026 for letting me live as the happiest person for the past 10 years.\u201d<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n While no official plans have been announced yet, Mark hinted at a journey rooted in self-discovery \u2014 one that centres on finding his own musical identity and purpose.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n \u201cFor real, what my music\u2026 will be and how I can bring it into fruition in this world.\u201d<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n As fans process the news, one thing is clear: this isn\u2019t just an ending \u2014 it\u2019s the start of something deeply personal for one of K-pop\u2019s most beloved artists.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n And wherever he goes next, Czennies will be watching.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/assets.bandwagon.asia\/system\/tinymce\/image\/file\/13366\/content_mark.webp\")
<\/p>\n
\n
\n<\/p><\/blockquote>\nLike what you read? Show our writer some love!<\/h5>\n<\/div>\n