Mark Lee Says Goodbye To NCT In A Heartfelt Letter—And The Boys' Reactions Are Everything

After a decade of being one of NCT's most recognizable faces, Mark Lee is officially closing this chapter.

The 26-year-old rapper and dancer, known for being a core member across NCT 127, NCT Dream, and NCT U, will be parting ways with both NCT and SM Entertainment. The agency confirmed the news through Weverse, sharing that they have mutually decided to conclude his contract on April 8, 2026.

In their statement, SM Entertainment acknowledged Mark's impact over the years, highlighting his talent, versatility, and consistent presence in both group and solo activities. 

"We are truly grateful for the time he spent with us, and we wholeheartedly support him as he begins a new chapter in his journey."

Shortly after the announcement, Mark reached out to fans through a heartfelt handwritten letter that he posted on Instagram. Without going into full detail, he shared that this decision came fully from his heart. 

"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 new one," he wrote.

He also made sure to address fans with sincerity, asking for their trust after years of growing together. "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." 

NCT members and fans have always known Mark for his sincerity and that unmistakable, bright energy he brings into every room. So it wasn't surprising when the support came in almost instantly.

Members like Chenle, Jaemin, Jeno, and Haechan showed up in his comments with messages that felt simple but deeply personal. In Korean, Jeno wrote, "Our leader hyung, let's be happy," while Haechan kept it short and sweet with an "I love you."

Doyoung, on the other hand, shared a longer message on his Instagram Stories, offering a glimpse into their bond behind the scenes.

In the English translation, he wrote, "Mark has been a friend I love more than anyone, and he remains that way. We've shared and discussed things for a long time. I've decided to understand everything in 'beloved Marks' heart and continue to support him endlessly. I would be grateful if everyone could listen to his longstanding sincerity and concerns without prejudice."

Long before the global tours and sold-out shows, Mark was just a trainee who took a leap from Canada to South Korea in 2012. Four years later, that risk paid off.

In April 2016, he officially debuted through NCT U, the group's rotational unit, with "The 7th Sense."

Just a few months after, in July 2016, he joined NCT 127, the group's first fixed subunit, debuting with "Fire Truck." The unit, which includes members like Taeyong, Yuta, Jaehyun, Winwin, Haechan, Taeil, Johnny, Jungwoo, and Doyoung, quickly became known for its experimental sound and strong stage presence, with hits like "Cherry Bomb" and "Kick It."

By August 2016, Mark took on yet another role as the leader of NCT Dream, alongside members Haechan, Jaemin, Jeno, Renjun, Chenle, and Jisung. Originally introduced as a youth-based unit, they debuted with "Chewing Gum," a track that leaned into a bright and playful concept that fans still remember to this day.

In 2019, Mark expanded his reach even further through SuperM, a project group that felt like a crossover of SM Entertainment's defining boy groups across generations. Sharing the stage with their sunbaenims from EXO and SHINee, Mark stood as one of NCT's representatives alongside Taeyong, Ten, and Lucas. 

Over the years, Mark also built a strong connection with Filipino fans. He first visited the Philippines in October 2017 for NCT 127's performance at K-Pop Republic 2 held at Circuit Event Grounds in Makati, marking the beginning of a steady relationship with the local crowd.

By 2022, that connection had grown into something bigger. NCT 127 returned for their first solo concert at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, a sold-out show that felt like a long-awaited homecoming. The night was packed with high-energy stages, fan chants that filled the entire venue, and moments that made it clear just how solid their fanbase in the Philippines had become.

Mark's history with Manila didn't stop there. With NCT Dream, he kept coming back for The Dream Show, turning each visit into a kind of reunion. They had their concert series and came back in the years 2020, 2023, and 2024. 

Outside of group activities, Mark steadily built his identity as a solo artist. On February 4, 2022, he released "Child," a self-composed track under the NCT Lab project, showing a more introspective side of his artistry.

For now, Mark hasn't shared what exactly comes next. But the way he's spoken about this decision makes one thing clear: Mark stays hopeful. And the quiet and steady support from his members and fans says everything about the kind of trust he's built over the years.