The K-pop world got some shocking news on April 3, 2026. Mark Lee, a key member of NCT, is officially leaving the group and his agency SM Entertainment. The company confirmed that after many talks, both sides agreed to end his exclusive contract. The departure will take effect on April 8, 2026.
This decision means Mark will no longer take part in any activities with NCT, including its two popular sub-units, NCT 127 and NCT DREAM.
Why Mark Lee Is Leaving NCT and SM Entertainment
Many fans are asking the same question. Why is Mark Lee leaving after building his whole career with the group? According to the official statements, this was not a sudden choice. SM Entertainment said the decision came after a long period of careful and thoughtful discussion between the artist and the agency about his future path.
For Mark, the reason is very personal. In a handwritten letter posted on his Instagram, the 26-year-old singer opened up about a dream he has had since his trainee days. He shared that he always wanted to travel and perform with just an acoustic guitar. He also loves writing in English so much that he once dreamed of becoming a writer.
After experiencing the world at its fullest with NCT for ten years, Mark said he became curious about what the complete version of that old dream looks like. He wants to find out what his own music will be and how he can share it with the world.
“I truly believe that our hearts have better sight than our eyes, and what my heart sees right now isn’t a closing door but rather opening a new one.” – Mark Lee
Mark Lee’s Emotional Farewell Letter to Fans
Mark did not let the official statement speak for him. He made sure to talk directly to the NCTzens (NCT fans) who have supported him for a decade. He shared a long, emotional letter written by hand in both Korean and English.
He started by reminding fans that he debuted with NCT U on April 9, 2016. He said that for ten years, he felt nothing but happiness. He thanked the fans for helping him turn a quiet dream of becoming a singer into something much bigger.
Mark also spoke about his fellow NCT members. He wrote that every single member told him they supported his decision. He said thinking about their kindness brings him to tears. He called himself tearfully grateful and forever sorry to them, but he also knows they support his next step.
He ended his letter with a promise to keep working hard. Mark told fans that he will do his absolute best to come back as a better version of himself when they meet again.
“I’m truly and always will be thinking about you guys… and I’ll really be working very, very hard to make it all make sense. Love you all so much… See you.” – Mark Lee
How NCT Will Change After Mark Lee Leaves
With Mark leaving, both NCT sub-units will have new member counts starting April 8. SM Entertainment has confirmed the new lineups.
NCT 127 will now move forward with seven members:
- Johnny
- Taeyong
- Yuta
- Doyoung
- Jaehyun
- Jungwoo
- Haechan
NCT DREAM will continue with six members:
- Renjun
- Jeno
- Haechan
- Jaemin
- Chenle
- Jisung
The agency promised to keep giving full support to the remaining members and to do their best for the fans who continue to love NCT.
Fans Share Their Shock and Support Online
News of Mark Lee’s departure spread fast across social media, and the reactions were intense. Thousands of fans shared their feelings on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Many said they were crying after reading his handwritten letter.
While some fans are heartbroken, many others are choosing to support his decision. One fan commented on the news, saying, “I’ll always support you, just please don’t disappear.” Another wrote that they were shocked and sad, even crying, but they will always be with Mark.
A different fan praised his work ethic, saying, “Thank you for all your hard work! You inspire me every single day.” They added that they are grateful to have known him as a member of NCT but cannot wait to see him grow.
Another popular post on X read, “Talent, loyalty, and heart. Not easy to replace. Respect always,” showing that even non-fans recognize his value to the industry.
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What Mark Lee Did Before Leaving NCT
Before this announcement, Mark Lee was one of the busiest idols in K-pop. He debuted with NCT in 2016 as a teenager. Since then, he has released four albums with the main group and multiple studio albums and EPs with NCT 127 and NCT DREAM.
He also started his solo career. Last year (2025), Mark released his first solo album titled “The Firstfruit.” The album included singles like “200,” “Fraktsiya,” “+82 Pressin,” and “1999.” This solo work was seen as an important step in him finding himself as an artist.
Just days before the departure news, Mark and the NCT DREAM members finished their world tour called DREAM THE FUTURE with a six-show run in Seoul. During the final concert, fans noticed several members crying on stage while performing the song “Rainbow,” which many now see as a hidden goodbye.
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