In a heartfelt announcement on April 8, 2026, Mark Lee revealed that he will be departing from NCT and SM Entertainment after an incredible 10 years with the group. This news comes as a significant moment for fans and the K-pop community, marking the end of an era for one of the genre’s most beloved artists.
Mark Lee, who has been a member of NCT since its inception in 2016, shared the news on Weverse, expressing his deep gratitude for the support he has received throughout his career. His departure follows the conclusion of NCT Dream’s world tour in Seoul, where he played a pivotal role in the group’s performances.
As Mark steps away, NCT 127 will continue as a seven-member group, while NCT Dream will move forward with six members. This transition reflects the unique structure of NCT, which has always embraced change and evolution within its subunits.
In his emotional Instagram post, Mark expressed, “Thank you for loving, supporting and shaping me to become who I am today.” He also conveyed his hope for a future where he and his fans can reflect on their shared memories with joy, stating, “I hope our next chapter together could be where we are all healthily smiling about the past, welcoming the present, and being excited for what’s to come.”
Mark’s journey with NCT has been remarkable, highlighted by his recent solo album, “The Firstfirst,” released in April 2025. His contributions have significantly shaped the group’s identity and success, making his departure a poignant moment for fans.
At just 26 years old, Mark Lee has already made a lasting impact on the music industry, and his decision to leave SM Entertainment was mutually agreed upon after discussions with the company. SM Entertainment confirmed his departure, emphasizing their support for Mark’s future endeavors.
As fans process this news, many have taken to social media to share their love and support for Mark, reflecting on the memories created over the past decade. One fan shared, “You guys make me want to be a better person, and I hope my decisions in life can only become a positive impact to anyone watching,” echoing Mark’s sentiments about the influence of his fans.
While details remain unconfirmed regarding Mark’s future plans, his departure marks a significant turning point for both him and NCT. The community of fans, known as Czennies, is rallying together to support Mark as he embarks on this new chapter in his life.
