Mark's Shocking Reason for Leaving NCT Revealed

SM Entertainment (SM) announced that after extensive discussions with Mark, their exclusive contract will terminate as of April 8, and Mark will conclude all NCT activities, including those with NCT 127 and NCT DREAM. SM expressed gratitude and support, stating that Mark has demonstrated outstanding capabilities in his group and solo activities over the past decade.

In a handwritten letter, Mark described his NCT activities as a "great voyage" and revealed his long-held desire for creation and his commitment to musical expansion. He stated, "I became curious about the completed form of my dream," and "I want to dive towards that dream." He also expressed his affection for the members, saying, "It makes me tear up just thinking about how sorry and grateful I am," and "I will be forever grateful to the members who supported my choice with love."

The NCT members respected Mark's decision and sent messages of support. Jisung of NCT DREAM said through a fan platform, "I don't want to let you go, but letting go is also love," while Jeno said, "Let's be sad for just a moment and then create happy memories again." Chenle conveyed, "Let's welcome a new era." Doyoung of NCT 127 stated via social media, even while serving in the military, "I understand Mark's choice and will support him until the end," and Taeyong shared the word "adult." Haechan, a friend of 13 years, posted a photo with Mark along with the caption "Forever."

Analyses suggest that Mark's departure was somewhat anticipated. It has been interpreted that the members' tearful moments during a recent NCT DREAM concert were expressions of their complex emotions ahead of the farewell. Given that NCT DREAM is a team built on "growth and unity," the impact of a core member's departure is expected to be significant.

Mark was a key member who imprinted the narrative of the group NCT on the public. Since his debut in 2016, he played a central role in the team, moving between NCT 127 and NCT DREAM. As the first member to gain widespread recognition and the one who opened the first scene of the debut teaser, he was referred to as the 'starting point' and 'symbol' of NCT. He was at the center of title tracks for every NCT project album and was at the core whenever the team expanded. In 2019, he also achieved a No. 1 record on the Billboard 200 with his activities in SuperM.