K-Pop star Mark Lee has announced that he is leaving NCT 127 and NCT Dream following the conclusion of his contract with entertainment agency SM Entertainment.
According to Billboard, the singer and rapper, also known mononymously as Mark, is leaving both groups 10 years after he first signed to SM Entertainment.
"After a long period of in-depth discussions with MARK regarding the direction of his future activities and following adequate conversations between both parties, we came to a mutual agreement to conclude his exclusive contract as of April 8," the company confirmed in a statement. "Accordingly, MARK will end all NCT activities, including NCT 127 and NCT DREAM."
The company praised Lee for showcasing his "outstanding abilities" in both NCT and as a solo artist, and said it looks forward to seeing what he accomplishes with his career following his departure.
NCT Dream will continue with six members, while NCT 127 will continue with seven.
"Out of all the things my heart wants to say right now, I truly wish to say thank you," Lee said in a statement. "Thank you for loving, supporting, and shaping me to become who I am today. I truly believe that our hearts have better sight than our eyes, and what my heart sees right now isn’t a closing door but rather an opening a new one."
Lee added that he will "never forget" the love shown towards him by his bandmates and fans. "I'm not playing here, and I am for sure not playing with your guys' hearts," he continued. "You guys make me want to be a better person, and I hope my decision in life can only become a positive impact to anyone watching. I’m truly and always thinking about you guys."
Lee was also a member of SM Entertainment’s unit group, SuperM, which included members from EXO and SHINee. He released his solo debut album, The Firstfruit, in April 2025.
NCT 127 are expected to return with new music in 2026. The group is scheduled to headline the KCON LA festival in August.
