NCT Mark exits after 10 years: 'It makes sense why Jisung was crying' fans react

Dubai: One of K-pop's most beloved figures is stepping into a new chapter. Mark, a founding member of NCT, will be parting ways with SM Entertainment on 8 April, bringing an end to nearly a decade with the agency and concluding his activities with both NCT 127 and NCT DREAM.

SM Entertainment made the announcement officially on April 3rd, confirming that after extensive discussions with Mark about the direction of his future, both parties mutually agreed to conclude his exclusive contract. The statement was warm and measured, reflecting what appears to have been an amicable parting.

"Since debuting in 2016 as part of NCT, Mark has demonstrated outstanding abilities not only in group promotions but also as a solo artist, showing remarkable activities over the past 10 years," the agency said. "We would like to convey our gratitude for the valuable time we have shared together, and we sincerely cheer on Mark as he leaves the team and begins a new leap forward."

Mark's own statement to fans, known as Czennies, was heartfelt and characteristically honest. Rather than offering a polished press release, he wrote something that felt personal and unfiltered.

"Out of all the things my heart wants to say right now, I truly wish to say thank you," he wrote. "Thank you for loving, supporting, and shaping me to become who I am today."

He acknowledged the uncertainty ahead while remaining clear that his decision was not made lightly. "It's a quest that I myself am scared about, but I know that it's not for the worst. If I had ever done something right to have gained your trust over the last decade, I hope you believe me when I say that I'm not doing this just for fun."

He closed with a message that left little doubt about how much his fans mean to him. "I will never forget the pieces of love and truth each and every Czennie gave me. You guys make me want to be a better person. See you."

For those less familiar with NCT's sprawling universe, Mark is a Canadian rapper and singer who debuted with NCT in April 2016. Over the course of his career, he became one of the group's most hardworking and versatile members, active simultaneously across NCT 127, NCT DREAM and NCT U, a feat that earned him a reputation as one of the most dedicated performers in the industry. He is also one of the few members to have been part of both NCT 127 and NCT DREAM concurrently for an extended period, a schedule that became something of a running acknowledgement within the fandom of just how much he gave to the group.

Beyond the group work, he has built a strong solo presence, with a loyal international fanbase that extends well beyond the core K-pop audience.

SM Entertainment confirmed that both units will continue. NCT 127 will carry on 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.

The response from the fandom has been emotional and overwhelmingly supportive, though the sadness is palpable. One fan on X pointed to a moment that suddenly made sense in hindsight, writing "it makes sense why Jisung was crying," referencing what fans now believe may have been a goodbye of sorts.

Another wrote: "If Mark Lee is leaving, SM just lost one of the realest. Talent, loyalty, and heart. Not easy to replace. Respect always."

The general mood among Czennies is one of bittersweet pride. Mark spent ten years showing up, working harder than almost anyone around him, and earning a level of trust and affection that very few artists ever achieve. Whatever comes next for him, his fanbase has made it clear they will be there for it.

As Mark himself put it: "I'll really be working very very hard to make it all make sense."

Here are a few fan reaction:

Areeba Hashmi is a trainee from Gulf News.