MARK, a member of NCT 127 and NCT DREAM, will wrap all NCT team activities as his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment ends―10 years after his debut. The move draws attention because it differs from the usual “transfer but continue group activities” route.
SM Entertainment said on the 3rd, “After long and in-depth discussions about MARK’s future, we agreed to end his exclusive contract as of April 8. MARK will conclude all NCT activities, including NCT 127 and NCT DREAM.”
Debuting with NCT in 2016, MARK has been a core member across multiple units, including NCT 127, NCT DREAM, NCT U, and SuperM. As the main rapper and performer, he helped shape the groups’ identities―signaling notable changes ahead for team activities.
With MARK’s departure, NCT 127 will continue as a 7-member team―JOHNNY, TAEYONG, YUTA, DOYOUNG, JAEHYUN, JUNGWOO, and HAECHAN. NCT DREAM will move forward as a 6-member team―RENJUN, JENO, HAECHAN, JAEMIN, CHENLE, and JISUNG.
SM stated, “Over the past 10 years, MARK has showcased remarkable talent not only in group activities but also as a solo artist. We’re grateful for the time we’ve spent together and sincerely support MARK as he leaves the team and begins a new chapter.”
Following the news, a recent interview from about a month ago is drawing fresh attention.
In his Harper’s Bazaar Korea interview reflecting on promotions for his first solo album "The Firstfruit," MARK said, “Putting all my honest sides out there made me feel freer. I gained the confidence that I can keep going. These days, I’m digging even deeper―into what’s next for musician MARK.” He added, “In life and in music, I want to live with honesty. Even if I waver, I want to stay true to myself,” sharing his thoughts on musical direction.
With "The Firstfruit," released last April, MARK proved his potential as a solo artist. The album topped Billboard’s ‘Best K-Pop Albums of 2025,’ spotlighting his presence in the global music market.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)
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