Mark Lee and Ten have officially concluded their contracts with SM Entertainment, signaling a significant transition period for NCT as both artists mark ten years since their debut.

Mark first confirmed his departure on April 3, stating that the decision came after a long period of careful discussion. 

He will fully exit NCT and all its units, including NCT 127 and NCT Dream, ending a decade-long run as one of the group’s most active members. His departure takes effect on April 8, after which NCT 127 is set to promote as seven members and NCT Dream as six.

Widely recognized for his involvement across multiple NCT units since debut, Mark has been a consistent presence in the group’s releases and performances. He was part of the original lineup of NCT U in 2016 and later became a fixed member of both NCT 127 and NCT Dream, where he also served as leader. His exit marks the first time he will no longer be participating in any NCT-related activities.

Ten announced his own departure from SM Entertainment on April 6. Unlike Mark, he will continue his activities as a member of NCT and WayV under a separate arrangement that allows him to participate in group promotions while pursuing opportunities outside the agency.

In his statement, Ten shared that the decision was driven by a desire to explore new challenges as he approaches a decade in the industry.

Ten, who also debuted in 2016 through NCT U, has been a core member of WayV and a regular participant in NCT’s rotational projects. His continued involvement in group activities maintains stability within WayV’s lineup despite the agency change.

Both departures take effect on April 8, 2026. The developments introduce immediate structural changes within NCT’s active units, particularly with the confirmed member reductions in NCT 127 and NCT Dream, while WayV is expected to continue with Ten included in future activities.

PHOTO: TENLEE_1001 and ONYOURM_ARK (via Instagram)