Official Announcement: NCT Mark Ends Exclusive Contract with SM and Departs the Team
Mark, who has been a key member of the group NCT, will officially conclude his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment and leave the team as of April 8, 2026. After nearly 10 years of showcasing unparalleled talent since debut, here is a detailed breakdown of his new journey and the structural changes within the remaining members.
Key Summary
- End Date: Exclusive contract ends on April 8, 2026
- Scope of Departure: All NCT activities including NCT 127, NCT DREAM, and NCT U
- Team Restructuring: NCT 127 (7 members), NCT DREAM (6 members)
- Reason: Mutual agreement after in-depth discussions about future activities
Table of Contents (Quick Access)
1. Official Statement from SM Entertainment & Contract Termination Details
SM Entertainment officially announced Mark’s departure on April 3, 2026. The agency stated that after long and thorough discussions regarding his future direction, both parties mutually agreed to conclude the exclusive contract as of April 8. 🌟
This decision goes beyond a simple contract expiration, as it also signifies Mark’s withdrawal from all NCT units. SM expressed gratitude for the meaningful journey together and sincerely wished him success in his new chapter.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Announcement Date | April 3, 2026 |
| Contract End Date | April 8, 2026 |
| Scope of Activities Ending | All units including NCT 127, NCT DREAM, NCT U |
2. Changes in NCT 127 & NCT DREAM Lineups
With Mark’s departure, major lineup changes are expected across NCT’s key units. As he served as a core rapper and performer in both teams, the remaining members will likely take on expanded roles. 🎤
1: Changes in NCT 127
The group will transition from an 8-member lineup (including Mark) to a 7-member system. The key challenge will be how the group fills the gap left by its main rapper.
2: Changes in NCT DREAM
After abolishing the graduation system and gaining solid popularity as “7Dream,” the group will now continue as a 6-member team. Attention is focused on how Mark’s absence—who bridged the younger and older members—will impact the group’s identity.
3: Mark as a Solo Artist
Following his album “The Firstfruit” released last year, Mark is expected to pursue an independent musical path. Whether he will join a new label after leaving SM is also a major point of interest.
| Group | Remaining Members | Lineup |
|---|---|---|
| NCT 127 | Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, Haechan | 7 Members |
| NCT DREAM | Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, Jisung | 6 Members |
3. Mark’s 10-Year Career Journey & Key Achievements
Since debuting in 2016, Mark has earned the nickname “pro debuter” due to his extensive activities. Starting as part of SM Rookies, he participated in nearly all NCT units and contributed significantly to shaping the group’s identity. 💎
| Year | Major Activities |
|---|---|
| April 2016 | Debuted with NCT U “The 7th Sense” |
| July–August 2016 | Debuted in NCT 127 and NCT DREAM |
| 2019 | Global promotions as a member of SuperM |
| April 2025 | Solo debut with first full album “The Firstfruit” |
Beyond group activities, Mark has shown excellence in songwriting and composition, establishing a solid position in the K-pop scene with his unique rap flow. While his departure leaves fans with regret, his decade-long dedication continues to receive strong support.
4. Mark (MARK) Detailed Profile
Here is a summary of the basic personal information and debut history of Mark, known as NCT’s “ace” and an all-rounder. Take a look at the journey that inspired K-pop fans for a decade. 💎
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mark Lee / Lee Min-hyung |
| Date of Birth | August 2, 1999 (Toronto, Ontario, Canada) |
| Nationality | Canada 🇨🇦 |
| Height / Blood Type | 175cm, Type A |
| Education | School of Performing Arts Seoul (Practical Dance / Graduated) |
| Religion | Protestant |
| MBTI | INFJ (Advocate) |
Mark was recognized as a core member of SM Rookies even before debut and is an artist who combines outstanding rap-making skills with powerful dance performance. 🎤
Key Activities & Positions
- ✅ Position: Main Rapper, Main Dancer, Sub Vocal (true all-rounder within NCT)
- ✅ Nicknames: Baby Lion, Pro Debuter, Mark Lee, “Genius Puppy Vocal”
- ✅ Career Highlights:
- Mnet “High School Rapper” Season 1 finalist
- Member of NCT 127, NCT DREAM, NCT U, and SuperM
- Released first solo full album “The Firstfruit” (2025)
1: Rap Making
From his debut track “The 7th Sense,” Mark has consistently proven his artistry by writing his own rap verses.
2: Global Influence
With fluent English as a Canadian native, he played a key role in NCT’s global expansion through international interviews and communication.
3: Icon of Hard Work
Known for his dedication since his trainee days, Mark is widely regarded as one of the most hardworking artists within SM Entertainment.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) TOP 5
Q1. When exactly is Mark’s departure date?
A1. The official contract termination and end of NCT activities is April 8, 2026.
Q2. Are NCT 127 and NCT DREAM disbanding?
A2. No. NCT 127 will continue as a 7-member group, and NCT DREAM will continue as a 6-member group.
Q3. Has Mark’s new agency been decided?
A3. As of now, there has been no official confirmation regarding a new agency.
Q4. What about Haechan?
A4. Haechan will remain active in both NCT 127 and NCT DREAM.
Q5. Can we still access Mark’s previously released albums?
A5. Yes, all previously released songs, music videos, and albums remain available on official platforms.
Conclusion
Mark’s departure from SM Entertainment, a symbolic figure of NCT, marks the end of an era. However, this is not an ending but a new beginning. Fans can look forward to his second chapter as a solo artist, as well as the newly reorganized NCT. 🌈
For fans who have supported Mark, we hope you cherish the remaining time until April 8, and continue to show unwavering support for his future endeavors.
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