K-pop fans are reacting to the news that Mark, a prominent Korean-Canadian member of SM Entertainment’s popular group NCT, will officially depart from both the collective and the agency. The decision follows Mark’s choice not to renew his exclusive contract, SM Entertainment confirmed on Friday.
This significant announcement has taken many fans by surprise, given that details surrounding Mark’s contract duration had never been made public, and there were no previous indications of his impending departure from the NCT system.
In an official statement, SM Entertainment detailed the mutual decision: “After a long period of careful and thoughtful discussion with Mark regarding his future activities, we have mutually agreed to conclude his exclusive contract as of April 8.” The agency further clarified, “Mark will conclude all activities as a member of NCT, including his roles in units NCT 127 and NCT Dream.”
Mark Lee, widely known as Mark, made his highly anticipated debut with NCT in 2016. Reports indicated he had initially signed a 10-year exclusive contract with SM Entertainment.
Looking ahead, SM Entertainment confirmed that NCT 127 will proceed as a seven-member unit, featuring Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, and Haechan. Similarly, NCT Dream will continue its activities as a six-member lineup, comprising Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung.
SM Entertainment affirmed its commitment to supporting the activities of the remaining members across all NCT units, while also extending its appreciation for the unwavering support from fans during this transition.
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