Mark of NCT is ending his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment.
On April 3, SM Entertainment announced in an official statement: "We discussed Mark’s future direction for a long time and in depth. After sufficient conversations, we agreed to conclude his exclusive contract effective April 8," adding, "Mark will wrap up all NCT activities, including NCT 127 and NCT DREAM."
The company continued, "Since debuting with NCT in 2016, Mark has showcased outstanding talent not only as a group member but also as a solo artist, delivering an incredible decade of work. We are grateful for the precious time we shared together and will sincerely support Mark as he leaves the team and embarks on a new chapter."
Regarding future group activities, SM stated, "NCT 127 will continue with seven members — Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, and Haechan — and NCT DREAM will proceed with six members — Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung."
After the announcement, Mark posted a handwritten letter on his Instagram. He wrote, "I know this will feel very sudden to everyone," and added, "I also know that a single handwritten letter can’t soften a change that may come as a big shock and hurt to the NCTzens (fandom name) who have loved me as NCT’s Mark until now, and that weighs heavily on my heart."
He continued, "I will carry lifelong gratitude for SM, my NCT members, and NCTzens," promising, "As I greet you in a new form going forward, I’ll work as hard as humanly possible to show you the best version of Mark."
Meanwhile, during NCT DREAM’s six-day concert run at Seoul Olympic Park’s KSPO Dome last month, every member except Jaemin shed tears on stage. Fans began speculating, asking, "Aren’t renewals coming up soon — is something going on?" and "I hope no one is leaving the group," among other theories.