Mark SM Contract Termination: NCT Member Departs Agency and Groups
Mark SM contract termination became official on April 8, when SM Entertainment confirmed that the exclusive agreement with NCT member Mark had been concluded after extensive discussions. The agency stated that the decision followed a long period of dialogue and mutual agreement, marking the end of a ten‑year partnership that began with Mark’s debut in NCT in April 2016.
Background and Contract Details
SM Entertainment’s statement emphasized that Mark had been a central figure in both NCT 127 and NCT Dream, contributing not only to group activities but also pursuing solo endeavors. In April of the previous year, Mark released his first solo album titled The First Fruit, officially launching his career as a solo artist. The agency praised his versatility, noting that over the past decade he had demonstrated strong abilities as both a group member and a solo performer.
The announcement clarified that Mark would cease all activities under the NCT banner, including promotions with NCT 127 and NCT Dream. Consequently, NCT 127 will continue as a seven‑member unit consisting of Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, and Haechan. NCT Dream will reconfigure as a six‑member group with Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung.
Mark’s Reflection and Future Plans
On the same day, Mark shared a handwritten letter on his social media accounts, written in both Korean and English. He opened the message by noting that ten years had passed since his debut on April 9, 2016, and expressed gratitude for the experiences, stages, and memories accumulated during that time.
In the letter, Mark revealed a long‑held personal dream of performing busking with an acoustic guitar and of pursuing writing, particularly in English. He explained that his time with SM and NCT had helped him discover these aspirations, prompting him to consider new chapters beyond idol activities.
Mark also addressed his fellow members, describing deep conversations that left him moved to tears. He thanked each member for their unwavering support, saying he felt both sorry and grateful for the journey they shared. Regarding fans, referred to as “Sysyni,” he expressed lifelong appreciation, crediting them for turning his once‑shy dream of becoming a singer into a reality.
He closed the letter by promising to carry gratitude toward SM, his NCT teammates, and the fans throughout his life, and pledged to work hard to present a positive image whenever he returns to the public eye in a new form.
Impact on NCT Units
The departure reshapes the lineup of two of NCT’s prominent sub‑units. NCT 127’s new seven‑member formation eliminates Mark’s vocal and performance contributions, while NCT Dream’s six‑member lineup continues without him. SM Entertainment affirmed that it will continue to support the remaining NCT members and pledged to maintain its efforts for fans who have followed the group’s evolution.
In summary, Mark SM contract termination marks the end of a significant era for both the artist and the NCT project. After a decade of activity, Mark steps away to pursue personal ambitions, leaving behind a legacy of music, performances, and heartfelt connections with members and fans alike. The future will observe how his individual path unfolds, while NCT 127 and NCT Dream adapt to their revised configurations.
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