NCT’s Ten and Mark—who recently parted ways with SM Entertainment—are officially going solo with their own independent labels. As more stars open one-person agencies and step into the spotlight on their own terms, fans are laser-focused on what these two will do next.
On June 3, Mark drew attention by revealing a new account called "uprmlable" on his Instagram.
The new handle is the official social media for 'UPPERROOM,' reported to be Mark’s new home base. After dropping three short trailers, the account uploaded another similarly styled clip on June 4, immediately fueling fan speculation.
UPPERROOM is a content studio Mark co-founded as a co-CEO with longtime collaborators. Centered on music, it plans and produces across video, visual arts, live shows, and more in pop culture. The name 'UPPERROOM' signifies "a space where like-minded people gather to share ideas." With this launch, Mark plans to step out as a fully independent creator.
Back in April, Mark shocked fans by ending his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment and simultaneously withdrawing from all NCT units. At the time, SM stated, "We discussed Mark’s future direction for a long time and, after sufficient talks, agreed to conclude his exclusive contract as of April 8," adding, "Mark will end all NCT activities, including NCT 127 and NCT DREAM."
The news split the fandom. Some cheered him on—"He worked like an ox for years," "It’s time he does what he wants," "Wishing him the best"—while others were heartbroken: "Leaving so suddenly feels bittersweet," "I thought he’d stay till the end," "NCT without Mark doesn’t feel real."
Ten—also a member of WayV—has launched his own one-person label as well, signaling a bold solo push. On May 15, he opened the social accounts for his personal label 'ILLIMNT' (illimnt) and began sharing various content, building major anticipation.
Ten finalized the end of his exclusive contract with SM on April 8. Unlike Mark, however, he is expected to continue WayV and NCT activities under SM while running his independent label for solo work.
With more artists starting one-person labels after wrapping up exclusive contracts, all eyes naturally turn to BLACKPINK’s Jennie, who blazed a trail after leaving YG Entertainment.
OA Entertainment is the one-person agency Jennie founded after her individual contract with YG ended in November 2023. While she still partners with YG for BLACKPINK’s group activities, Jennie has built an independent system for her solo albums, advertisements, and other personal projects.
According to Korea’s electronic disclosure system on May 9, OA Entertainment paid Jennie approximately KRW 14.3 billion in 2024 and about KRW 9.5 billion in 2025—around KRW 23.8 billion across two years.
As K-Pop’s global influence hits unprecedented heights, more artists are setting up their own labels—broadening the possibilities of an artist-led, independent business model.