Ten is officially leaving SM Entertainment, marking a major shift within NCT’s global structure. The company confirmed on April 6 that his exclusive contract will conclude on April 8, following what it described as “careful and extensive discussions” regarding the artist’s future direction.
In a formal notice, SM stated: “Following careful and extensive discussions regarding TEN’s future direction, we have reached a mutual understanding to conclude his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment, effective April 8.” The agency added that it will “continue to stay in close communication to explore opportunities for TEN to participate in WayV and NCT activities, where possible,” signaling that group involvement may not be entirely closed despite the contractual separation.
The statement also acknowledged his creative impact across multiple projects. “Throughout his career, TEN has brought a distinctive artistic presence and breadth of talent to both his group and solo work,” the company wrote, before thanking him for their time together and wishing him “all the best as he moves forward into a new chapter.” SM reiterated its commitment to supporting WayV’s ongoing activities while extending gratitude to fans for their continued support.
The news arrives just days after another high-profile departure within the same ecosystem. Mark Lee is also set to part ways with SM Entertainment on April 8, exiting NCT and its subunits NCT 127 and NCT Dream following “long and in-depth discussions.” That back-to-back timing raises broader questions about the company’s evolving roster strategy and the future configuration of its flagship group.
Ten’s departure closes a decade-long chapter that began in December 2013, when he was introduced through SM Rookies. His official debut came on April 8, 2016, as part of NCT U with “The 7th Sense,” one of the foundational releases of the NCT project. From there, his role expanded rapidly across units and formats, reflecting both his versatility and SM’s rotational group model.
His contributions extended well beyond NCT U. As a core member of WayV, launched in January 2019, Ten helped anchor the group’s China-focused expansion, while also participating in high-profile collaborations such as SuperM, whose self-titled debut opened at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in October 2019. Solo work further defined his artistic identity, from early SM Station releases like “Dream in a Dream” and “New Heroes” to his 2024 EP Ten, led by “Nightwalker.”
Recent activity has underscored his continued momentum outside group releases. On March 24, 2026, Ten released his second EP Stunner, featuring the title track of the same name, followed by plans for his first solo concert series in Seoul on April 12 and 13. Additional projects include the Japanese EP Humanity, set for physical release on May 28, alongside a four-city Japan tour scheduled throughout May.
Leave a Reply