Mark Lee reflects on decade-long journey following announcement of NCT departure

Mark Lee took to social media to share his handwritten letter for fans shortly after his NCT departure was announced by SM Entertainment on Friday. 

In the letter, which he posted on Instagram, he reflected on his 10 years since debuting in 2016.

“I’ve performed on so many stages, and above all, I feel like I’ve made so many memories. I know very well that there are Czennies who have liked me since the SM Rookies days, so if you include that time, it has actually been more than 10 years," he wrote in Korean as translated by Soompi.

"How have the past ten-plus years been for you, Czennies…? I think I’ve truly, truly been nothing but happy." 

According to Mark, his decision comes as his 10-year contract period reaches its end, sharing that he has long carried a personal dream beyond idol life, one that he now wants to fully pursue.

“I dreamed of traveling around with just an acoustic guitar, busking on the streets, and I loved writing in English so much that I even wanted to become a writer,” he said.

Mark expressed deep gratitude to SM Entertainment, the NCT members, and fans, known as Czennies, for supporting him throughout his career. He also shared that his fellow members had given him their full support in making the decision.

“Every single member, without exception, told me they support me. I’ll feel sorry for the rest of my life, and more than anything, I’m grateful,” he said.

Acknowledging the shock his departure may bring, Mark apologized to fans and admitted that the decision came after long deliberation.

“I truly understand that it doesn’t automatically ease everyone’s worries, concerns, and hardship just because it’s ‘a big challenge’ that I’m taking on alone," he said. 

"I know that announcing a major decision for a new chapter in my life cannot soften—through this one handwritten letter alone—the change that could come as a huge shock and hurt to Czennies who have loved me as ‘NCT’s Mark,’ to Mark fans, and to the general public.”

Despite stepping away from NCT, Mark promised to return in the future with a new side of himself, asking fans to continue supporting him on his next chapter.

“So that when I greet you again in the future with a new side of myself, I can be a Mark you can be proud of, I will do my absolute best—beyond my best—and work as hard as I can. Once again, thank you so much.”

Mark also shared a handwritten letter in English, expressing hope for the next chapter "where we are all healthily smiling about the past, welcoming the present, and being excited for what's to come," he said. 

He also expressed his gratitude anew to all of his supporters. 

"I will never forget the pieces of love and truth each and every Czennie gave me... I'm not playing here, and I am for sure not playing with your guys' hearts..." he said. "You guys make me want to be a better person, and I hope my decisions in life can only become a positive impact to anyone watching." 

Mark debuted with NCT and its sub-units NCT 127 and NCT Dream in 2016. 

NCT Dream recently made a comeback with their EP, “Beat it Up,” in 2025. 

Aside from being a member of the K-pop group, Mark is also a solo artist debuting in 2025 with his debut album “The Firstfruit.” 

Mark was in the Philippines with his fellow members in August 2024 for “The Dream Show 3” in SM Mall of Asia Arena.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Mark (@onyourm__ark)

—Carby Rose Basina/CDC, GMA News