Mark Lee Leaves NCT, Contract with SM Entertainment Ends

Kapanlagi.com - Shocking news came from the K-pop world on April 3, 2026, when Mark Lee officially ended his journey with NCT. This announcement was made directly by SM Entertainment through their official platform.

This decision was made after lengthy discussions regarding the idol's career future. As of April 8, 2026, Mark will no longer continue activities as part of NCT.

1. The End of Mark's Contract with SM Entertainment

Mark Lee carrying a bag (c) instagram Mark

Mark's exclusive contract with SM Entertainment officially ended on April 8, 2026. This decision is described as the result of mature discussions between both parties.

The agency emphasized that the separation occurred amicably without conflict. This marks an important moment in Mark's career journey as a musician.

2. Leaving All NCT Units

With the end of the contract, Mark is also confirmed to be leaving all NCT units. He will no longer participate in group or sub-unit activities.

This decision certainly surprised many fans considering his central role in various NCT units since their debut.

3. Line Up of NCT 127 and NCT Dream

After Mark's departure, the lineup of NCT 127 will continue with seven members: Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, and Haechan. Meanwhile, NCT Dream will continue their activities as six members: Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung.

This change marks a new chapter for both sub-units in their journey ahead.

4. Expressions of Gratitude from SM Entertainment

Through its official statement, SM Entertainment also expressed gratitude for Mark's dedication since his debut in 2016. For almost a decade, Mark has been known as a multitalented idol with consistent rap, dance, and stage performance skills.

His contributions are considered important in shaping NCT's musical identity.

5. SM Entertainment's Support for NCT

Despite losing one of its key members, SM ensures that it will continue to fully support NCT's activities. The agency is committed to maintaining the quality and development of the group in the future.

They also ask fans to continue giving love and support to the remaining members.

6. Complete Statement from SM Entertainment (English Version)

"Hello, this is SM Entertainment.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to all the fans for the love and support continuously given to NCT.

After a long, mature, and thoughtful discussion process with MARK regarding his future activities, we have mutually agreed to end his exclusive contract as of April 8. MARK will also complete all his activities as a member of NCT, including NCT 127 and NCT DREAM.

Since his debut with NCT in 2016, MARK has shown exceptional talent and flexibility through group and solo activities, delivering impressive performances over the years. We are very grateful for the time he has spent with us, and we fully support him in starting a new chapter in his journey.

Moving forward, NCT 127 will continue to operate as a group with seven members consisting of JOHNNY, TAEYONG, YUTA, DOYOUNG, JAEHYUN, JUNGWOO, and HAECHAN. NCT DREAM will continue to operate as a group with six members consisting of RENJUN, JENO, HAECHAN, JAEMIN, CHENLE, and JISUNG.

SM Entertainment will continue to provide full support for the activities of the NCT members, and we will do our best to repay the love and support continuously given by the fans.

Thank you."

7. Mark's Career Journey with NCT

Since debuting with NCT in 2016, Mark has been known as one of the most active members. He has been involved in various units, including NCT U, NCT 127, and NCT Dream.

His skills in rap and lyric writing have made him stand out in many of the group's releases. In addition to group activities, he has also developed a solo career by releasing the album "First Fruit" in 2025.

Over the years, Mark has become an important face in NCT's global expansion, bringing the group's name to international stages. Now, his departure marks the end of one era and the beginning of a new journey in his career.

(kpl/rsp)