Mark, following the announcement of his official departure from NCT and SM Entertainment, has received an outpouring of heartfelt support from his fellow group members.
On April 3, 2026, SM Entertainment confirmed that Mark would conclude his ten-year journey with the collective on April 8, a transition that marks a major turning point for both the artist and the group alike.
The news was met with an immediate wave of solidarity from his group members. Shortly after Mark shared a deeply personal handwritten letter on Instagram, the comment section became a testament to the group’s unbreakable bond.
Jaemin shared a particularly emotional message, writing, "Baby, don't be sad, I'll make up for you. Love you," while Jeno affectionately addressed him as "Our leader brother," wishing him nothing but happiness in his next chapter. Members Haechan and Chenle also chimed in, offering simple yet powerful declarations of love and encouragement.
In his letter, Mark reflected on his growth since his 2016 debut, describing his time with NCT as a period where he was able to experience the world most profoundly. He revealed that the difficult decision to move on stems from a long-held dream to explore a more raw, acoustic musical path. This journey involves busking with a guitar and finding the fully realized shape of his own artistry.
Mark also highlighted that his fellow group members were his greatest source of strength during this transition. He noted that every single member, without exception, stood behind his choice. He expressed eternal gratitude to the older members who treated him like a younger brother and the younger members who looked up to him as a leader. He likened his departure to swimming into new, uncharted waters while his group members cheered on his deep dive from the shore.
As Mark prepares to embark on this new chapter, SM Entertainment confirmed that NCT 127 and NCT Dream will move forward as seven and six-member units, respectively. While the "infinite expansion" of NCT enters a new phase, the overwhelming support from the group members ensures that while Mark may be stepping off the NCT stage, his legacy as a leader brother remains firmly intact.
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