Mark to Part Ways with SM Entertainment and NCT After 10 Years

NCT’s Mark will conclude his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment on April 8, 2026, departing the group to pursue a new musical identity. The decision follows extensive discussions between the artist and the agency regarding his future direction.

Summary

Event	Detail
Official Departure	April 8, 2026
Agency Status	Terminating exclusive contract with SM Entertainment
New Direction	Acoustic street busking and English-language writing

Key Facts

• Mark is leaving NCT and SM Entertainment exactly 10 years after his debut to focus on acoustic street busking.
• SM Entertainment confirmed the April 8 termination date following "sufficient dialogue" and expressed gratitude for his contributions.
• Mark announced the news via a handwritten letter in Korean and English, stating he wants to "properly find and achieve what my music or 'fruit' will be."
• All NCT members reportedly expressed unanimous support for Mark’s decision following emotional discussions.
• NCT 127 will reorganize as a seven-member group, while NCT DREAM will transition into a six-member system.
• In his farewell message, Mark expressed lifelong gratitude to his agency, fellow members, and NCTzens while acknowledging the news may be difficult for fans.

Key Terms

• NCTzens: The global fandom of NCT, whom Mark addressed with gratitude regarding his departure.
• SM Entertainment: The K-pop agency that managed Mark’s activities for a decade and pledged to support his future endeavors.

Key Quote

"While talking a lot with each member, it makes me tear up just thinking about it, but in the end, every single member without exception said they support me." — Mark

Next

• NCT 127 will continue with seven members: Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, and Haechan.
• NCT DREAM will proceed with six members: Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung.
• Mark will transition to personal creative projects, including English-language writing and acoustic performances.