NCT’s Mark Lee exits after 10 years, fans in shock

NCT's Mark / Xportsnews

Fans of NCT are reeling after the sudden announcement that longtime member Mark will leave the group, just days after wrapping up a major concert run — timing that has sparked confusion, disbelief and intense online reaction.

On Friday, SM Entertainment said Mark’s exclusive contract will end Wednesday marking his official departure from all NCT activities, including its subunits NCT 127 and NCT Dream.

Following his exit, NCT 127 will continue as a seven-member group — Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo and Haechan — while NCT Dream will promote with six members: Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle and Jisung.

Mark also addressed fans directly through a handwritten letter shared on his personal account.

"I had many conversations with the members about this decision, and every single one of them supported me," he said. "I feel so thankful it brings me to tears, and at the same time, I feel a sense of lifelong apology."

He added, "To the members who shared the same journey and sailed together for so long, I am truly grateful and I love you."

NCT's Mark / Xportsnews

Mark also expressed gratitude to SM Entertainment, saying he would not forget his beginnings and would "work hard to become a better version" of himself as he prepares for a new chapter.

Debuting in 2016 as part of NCT, Mark quickly became one of the group’s most prominent figures, actively participating across multiple units including NCT 127, NCT Dream, NCT U and the project group SuperM. Known for his roles as a main rapper and dancer, he had also gained early recognition through SM’s pre-debut team SMROOKIES.

NCT Dream / Courtesy of SM Entertainment

NCT, widely considered one of the defining boy groups of K-pop’s third generation, remains active globally. Mark’s long tenure and central role in the group have made his departure particularly impactful for fans.

Adding to the shock is the timing. Just weeks ago, from March 20-22 and March 27-29, NCT held six solo concerts at KSPO Dome in Seoul’s Olympic Park, meeting thousands of fans in what now appears to have been one of Mark’s final appearances with the group.

Online, reactions have ranged from disbelief to heartbreak.

"I can't believe this," fans said. "Leaving at the peak of activity is shocking," others said, while anogther questioned the timing, saying, "The concerts just ended — this feels too sudden."

At the same time, many fans said they respect Mark’s decision and are choosing to support his next steps, even as uncertainty lingers over NCT’s future without one of its most recognizable members.

This article from Xportsnews is adapted by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.