Singer Mark has abruptly withdrawn from NCT, sparking retirement rumors among some fans.
On April 3, Mark announced his departure from NCT along with the expiration of his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment.
SM Entertainment stated, “Mark will end all activities with NCT 127, NCT DREAM, and other NCT units.”
As a result, NCT 127 will continue with seven members: Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, and Haechan. NCT DREAM will continue with six members: Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung.
Mark explained his reasons for leaving NCT in a handwritten letter, saying, “As I’m ending my 10-year contract, I’ve awakened all my senses and have been pondering for a long time about what the precise completed version of my dream looks like. I wanted to dive into it fully.”
He added, “I’ve pondered endlessly over what the most mature choice and approach would be. I’m sorry that the outcome of those thoughts seems so insufficient, and my heart feels very heavy about it.”
Mark used expressions like “new chapter,” “diving into dreams,” and “big decision” to metaphorically describe his future path.
Some fans are speculating whether Mark might explore a career beyond music, rather than signing an exclusive contract with a new agency or pursuing solo activities.
His unexpected departure from NCT has particularly fueled curiosity about his intentions, as members of other SM groups like Super Junior, SHINee, and Girls’ Generation have continued group activities with other agencies after their contracts with SM Entertainment ended.
Fans have expressed concerns, saying, “I wish he would just say he’s pursuing solo activities,” “I really hope he’s not retiring,” “It feels like he’s done with idol activities,” and “Isn’t this practically an idol retirement?”
