SEOUL, April 4 -- NCT fans were left shocked to learn that Mark Lee, considered the group's mainstay and face of the NCT brand, was leaving not just his agency SM Entertainment but the group as well. 

The news broke on April 3, 2026, sending shockwaves across the global fandom, and it's scheduled to take effect on April 8, 2026, marking a decade since his debut.

SM Entertainment confirmed the development through a formal notice on NCT 127's Weverse platform. The agency stated that the decision was reached after "sufficient and deep discussions with Mark for a long time," indicating it was a mutual agreement following the natural expiration of his contract.

The statement confirmed that Lee will end all activities as a member of NCT...