Mark Ends 10-Year Contract with SM, Ceasing All NCT Activities

26-year-old Korean-Canadian idol Mark is concluding his 10-year exclusive contract with SM Entertainment and stopping all activities as part of NCT. On April 3, SM Entertainment issued an official statement saying, “After lengthy and careful discussions regarding Mark’s future activities, both parties mutually agreed to end his exclusive contract effective April 8.”

Born in Toronto, Mark joined SM Entertainment as a trainee in 2012 and officially debuted as part of NCT U on April 9, 2016. He went on to become a key figure in K-POP by serving as a member of NCT 127, the Leader of NCT Dream, and a member of SM’s supergroup SuperM. In April 2025, he released his solo debut album, *The Firstfruit*, pursuing various activities beyond group work.

NCT Dream, which includes Mark, achieved success by debuting on the Billboard 200 at positions 50 and 28 with *Glitch Mode* (2022) and *ISTJ: The 3rd Album* (2023), respectively. NCT 127 has also solidified its international presence by having five of its albums reach the Billboard 200.

In its statement, SM Entertainment said, “Since his debut with NCT in 2016, Mark has demonstrated outstanding talent and versatility through both group and solo activities, delivering amazing performances over the years.” The company added, “We sincerely wish him success as he embarks on a new chapter.”

With Mark’s departure, NCT 127 will operate as a seven-member group consisting of Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, and Haechan. NCT Dream will continue as a six-member group with Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung.

Mark shared his thoughts directly with fans through Instagram. He said, “Of everything my heart wants to convey, I most want to express my gratitude.” He added, “I hope our next chapter becomes a place where we can laugh healthily about the past, embrace the present, and look forward to what’s ahead with excitement.”