On April 6, 2026 SM Entertainment announced that TEN’s exclusive contract would conclude on April 8, marking his departure from the company. The agency through the official statement released on Weverse stated that although the singer would no longer be under contract, discussions would continue regarding his participation in future activities with NCT and WayV, depending on scheduling and circumstances.
Following the agency’s statement, the singer addressed fans directly posting letters written in Korean, English and Thai on Instagram stories. In his message, he reassured supporters of his intention to continue promoting as a member of NCT and WayV while expressing his thoughts on the transition.
This development came shortly after Mark Lee’s announced his departure from both SM Entertainment and NCT, adding to a series of recent of several artists previously associated with the agency. Since 2023, several long-associated artists concluded their contracts with the company across different periods, including Super Junior members Kyuhyun, Donghae and Eunhyuk, BoA, Shinee’s Taemin and Onew, Red Velvet members Wendy and Yeri, Exo’s D.O, Baekhyun, Chen and Xiumin.
Amidst this as the news of the Thai singer’s departure circulated, fans expressed confusion and concern over the ongoing changes within SM Entertainment. Many fans expressed surprise at the continued departures and raised concerns about the situation within the company. Some shared uncertainty about the future of artists associated with SM Entertainment. One comment read,
“The sm era is over. they really messed up by ignoring one of their most talented groups. i’m rooting for ten and all of nct to find something better”
The back-to-back exits of two NCT members from the company prompted discussions among fans.
Some fans also expressed that with both Mark Lee and TEN departing, it felt like the end of an era for NCT.
Fans also shared their messages of support for the artist.
TEN to leave SM Entertainment after contract ends, confirms continued participation in NCT and WayV activities
In their official statement confirming the conclusion of the singer’s exclusive contract, SM Entertainment explained that the decision followed mutual discussions about the artist’s future direction. The agency expressed appreciation for fans’ continued support of WayV and acknowledged the singer’s contributions to both group and solo activities.
It further stated that communication would continue with the artist to explore the possibility of his participation in NCT and WayV schedules in the future. The company also conveyed its gratitude for the time spent working with the artist and extended its support for his next chapter, while reaffirming its commitment to WayV’s ongoing promotions.
TEN later on his personal statement posted on Instagram stories, reflected on his decade-long career since debuting with NCT U. He described his journey with NCT, WayV and SM Entertainment as meaningful and expressed gratitude for the support he received throughout the years.
The artist shared that, as he approached his 10th anniversary, he intended to pursue new challenges and explore different opportunities, which led to his decision to conclude his contract after discussions with the company and members. In his message, the singer referred to SM Entertainment as a foundational part of his career and highlighted his pride in growing as an artist under the agency, including being its first Thai artist.
He went on to thank his fellow members, staff and fans for their continued support and acknowledged their role in his growth. The artist confirmed that he plans to continue his activities as a member of NCT and WayV while also focusing on expanding his work as a solo artist. He concluded by asking fans to continue supporting both groups and his future endeavors.
Edited by Adrija Chakraborty