NCT Star Mark Lee To Leave SM Entertainment and Boy Band After a Decade; Last Day Confirmed
K-pop sensation Mark Lee is officially parting ways with SM Entertainment and NCT after 10 years. The agency confirmed on April 3 that Mark will exit NCT 127 and NCT DREAM to pursue a new chapter. In a heartfelt letter to fans, Mark expressed gratitude for the decade of support, while SM announced the new member lineups for the remaining units.
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the global K-pop community, SM Entertainment has officially announced that Mark Lee will be leaving NCT and the agency. The Canadian rapper and singer, who has been a cornerstone of the franchise since its inception in 2016, will conclude his promotional activities on April 8. The announcement, made on April 3, follows extensive discussions between the artist and the label regarding his future career path. NCT 127's Johnny Teased Mark Lee Until He Cursed On A Live Broadcast - Latest Tweet by Koreaboo.
SM Entertainment Confirms Mark Lee’s Departure
SM Entertainment released a warm statement acknowledging Mark’s immense contribution to the brand over the last decade. "Since debuting in 2016, Mark has demonstrated outstanding abilities not only in group promotions but also as a solo artist," the agency stated. The label expressed gratitude for the valuable time shared and confirmed that both parties reached a mutual decision to part ways. "We sincerely cheer on Mark as he leaves the team and begins a new leap forward," the statement concluded.
Mark Lee Pens Emotional Letter to Fans
Following the news, Mark reached out to his dedicated fanbase, known as Czennies, through a heartfelt letter. He admitted to feeling nervous about the transition but emphasised that the decision was made with deep sincerity. "It's a quest that I myself am scared about, but I know that it's not for the worst," Mark wrote. Addressing his fans' trust, he added, "If I had ever done something right to have gained your trust over the last decade, I hope you believe me when I say that I'm not doing this just for fun." He ended the note with a promise to never forget the love he received, stating, "You guys make me want to be a better person." Lee Young Ji Dances with NCT 127's Mark and Jaehyun in the '2 Baddies' Challenge - Latest Tweet by Allkpop.
Fans React to Mark Lee’s Exit
Social media has been flooded with emotional tributes as fans react to Mark Lee’s departure, with many recalling recent heartfelt moments at concerts, including Jisung tearing up, as signs that the group was already aware of the change. “If Mark Lee is leaving, SM just lost one of the realest. Talent, loyalty, and heart… not easy to replace,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Meanwhile, SM Entertainment confirmed that NCT 127 will continue as a seven-member group comprising Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, and Haechan, while NCT DREAM will move forward with six members: Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung.
Mark Lee Eyes Solo Career After NCT Exit
Mark Lee debuted in April 2016 and quickly earned a reputation as one of the most industrious idols in the industry. Juggling permanent spots in NCT 127 and NCT DREAM, while also participating in NCT U and SuperM, his work ethic became legendary among fans. As he prepares for his final day on April 8, the industry anticipates his next move as a solo artist on the global stage.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 03, 2026 05:39 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).