NCT’s Mark Announces Departure From Group After 10 Years

On Friday, April 3rd, SM Entertainment announced that Mark, a member of both NCT NCT K-POP GROUP NCT is a South Korean boy group formed by SM Entertainment with a unique multi-unit concept. DREAM and NCT NCT K-POP GROUP NCT is a South Korean boy group formed by SM Entertainment with a unique multi-unit concept. 127, will be exiting the company. Following the announcement, Mark posted a personal, handwritten letter to his Instagram page, addressing fans and expressing his desire to explore his artistic identity and goals away from the group, which he has been a part of for over a decade. He went on to emphasize his gratitude and love for his fellow members and his time with the band, as well as the devotion he has received from his fans. He offered acknowledgement and regret that his departure may cause sadness and surprise for his fanbase, but assured that he looks forward to the future of his musical journey beyond SM Entertainment.

The 26-year-old rapper and singer has dabbled in solo work in the past, with his first solo album The Firstfruit released in July of 2025. The album was a personal reflection of Mark’s thoughts and experiences and perhaps paved the way for this new direction in his career. But still, the announcement came as a shock to many.

Suspicions were on the rise on social media just days earlier after several members of NCT NCT K-POP GROUP NCT is a South Korean boy group formed by SM Entertainment with a unique multi-unit concept. DREAM appeared teary and emotional in videos from their latest group concert. Jisung in particular was seen crying during the encore show for their world tour in Seoul, sparking a social media buzz surrounding the video and what could be the cause of the emotional response. 

Other members of NCT NCT K-POP GROUP NCT is a South Korean boy group formed by SM Entertainment with a unique multi-unit concept. have expressed their support for Mark in comments left on his social media channels, encouraging him to pursue his goals and expressing their ongoing friendship. “I decided to understand everything in [Mark’s] heart, and to support him endlessly,” wrote NCT NCT K-POP GROUP NCT is a South Korean boy group formed by SM Entertainment with a unique multi-unit concept. member Doyoung in his post.

According to statements, Mark’s exit from the company was a mutual decision reached after discussions about the future after the conclusion of his 10-year contract with SM. He is expected to depart from the company once his contracted activities have ended.