Mark Lee Leaves SM Entertainment, Exiting NCT 127 and NCT Dream
SM Entertainment confirmed that Mark Lee will end his exclusive contract with the agency on April 8. The 26-year-old will also leave the K-pop collective NCT and its subunits.
The company released the news on Weverse on a Friday afternoon in Korea. The statement said the decision followed careful and mutual discussions.
The development effectively means Mark Lee Leaves SM Entertainment. It also announces him Exiting NCT 127 and NCT Dream.
Statement and Company Response
SM Entertainment praised Mark’s work since his debut. The label called his contributions versatile and remarkable.
The company expressed gratitude for his time at the agency. SM said it supports his next steps as he begins a new chapter.
History with NCT
Mark joined NCT at the group’s launch in 2016. He had been active across multiple units for years.
NCT now operates as a 24-member collective. Its structure includes rotating and fixed subunits.
Impact on NCT Subunits
NCT 127 will continue as a seven-member unit. The lineup now consists of Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo and Haechan.
NCT Dream will move forward as a six-member group. Its members are Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle and Jisung.
Recent Activities and Solo Work
Mark recently wrapped NCT Dream’s world tour with six Seoul shows. Those performances were his last activities with the unit.
He released his first solo album, The Firstfirst, in April 2025. The Canadian-born rapper told The Hollywood Reporter that the record helped him find himself.
Message to Fans
Mark posted a bilingual message on Instagram for fans. He thanked supporters and referenced NCT’s fanbase, Czennie.
Several group members responded beneath the post. Mark said he hopes his choices will have a positive effect on those watching.
