NCT TEN Leaves SM Entertainment

As the global music industry has rapidly evolved over the past few years, K-pop has played a crucial role in setting new examples to engage audiences with a new strategy. One such K-pop group includes NCT (Neo Culture Technology). The group was first deputed through its subunit on April 9, 2016, under SM Entertainment. It consists of 24 members, who are divided into 7 different subunits. As the years passed, the group became known for its versatility in music, vocals, and powerful performances. Among its globally recognized members is NCT TEN, who is loved by many K-pop fans.

Recently, a new member of the surrounding NCT TEN, leaving the group, has gained attention, making the fans worried and anxious. According to the speculations made, the situation has many twists and turns, making it different from typical K-pop departures. Let’s look into the matter and explore more.

NCT TEN and his History with SM Entertainment

NCT TEN was born in Chittaphon Leechaiyapornkul, who was recognized as a Thai dancer, singer, and performer. His career journey started when he first debuted under SM Entertainment in 2016. As the NCT group was divided into several units, he was put under NCT U. With dedication and hard work, he successfully became a full member of multiple units within the group, like WayV, SuperM, etc.

Apart from this, he also established his solo career, as he has a strong artistic identity and creative dance skills, and can communicate multilingually (Thai, English, Korean, and Chinese). He became a well-recognized and respected idol of the time. His career at SM Entertainment has always set him apart from his solo EP TEN, which was a huge success; he is known as one of SM’s most artistically distinct performers. 

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TEN leaving SM Entertainment: Official Statement

Just a few days after Mark Lee announced leaving the NCT group and SM Entertainment, NCT TEN was the headline of the same, sparking huge discussions online. People started speculating as they found something fishy, but eventually, after long discussions, SM Entertainment broke the silence and released an official statement confirming the end of TEN’s contract with the agency and that he will no longer work under them. 

They posted on Weverse saying, “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. Moving forward, we will continue to stay in close communication to express opportunities for NCT TEN  to participate in WayV and NCT activities, where possible.”

The fans truly believed that news when TEN, on his social media pages, posted a statement in Thai, Korean, and English stating, “Hi, Czennies and WayZenNies; it’s NCT TEN. It’s hard to believe that it’s been 10 years since my debut with NCT in 2016. Looking back, every moment that I have spent with you as a member of NCT WayV, as part of the SMTown family, and as TEN, whom you have come to know, love, and support, has been incredibly meaningful to me, and I truly cherish every moment of this journey.

As I approach my 10th anniversary, I have found myself wanting to take on new challenges, explore new possibilities, and discover new versions of myself, so after a lot of thought and many heartfelt discussions with the members and the staff at SM, I have decided to conclude my exclusive contract with the company.” According to the official statement, NCT TEN’s exclusive contract will end on April 8, 2026, and the decision was mutual. As Ten is no longer managed by SM Entertainment, he will still proceed to work with NCT and WayV, but this hybrid arrangement is rarely seen in the K-pop industry. 

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Why is TEN Leaving SM Entertainment?

There can be several reasons for NCT TEN to leave SM Entertainment, from the expiration of the contract timeline to finding new opportunities outside the current opportunity universe.

Contract Expiration

Just like the K-pop groups revolve, similarly, NCT TEN, too, like other idols, signed a standard contract of 7-10 years to align with the agency. This is the primary reason for his departure from the agency, as he has completed his 10 years with SM Entertainment.

Evolution in Career

As he was a part of multiple group debuts and is known for his solo success and global tours, he has evolved a lot in his career. At this stage, many idols usually require reinvention, and so did NCT TEN.

Desire for New Opportunities

NCT TEN expressed in his personal message about his desire to explore more opportunities so he could take on new challenges and show his potential globally through his independent projects. This will surely help him discuss new versions of himself.

Impact on NCT

The departure of NCT TEN marks a new era for NCT, leading to flexible collaborations and independent member structures. Despite these things, it also questions group stability. As two of its members have already set their ways apart, it is tough for NCT to retain the same position in the industry ahead. NCT will be seen going through a major transitional phase.

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Final Analysis: Left SM But Still Part of WayV

• It is a mutual and planned decision.
• TEN is still a part of NCT and WayV.
• The departure reflects artistic growth and independence.
• It signifies how idol careers are structured.

NCT TEN’s end of contract with SM Entertainment and departure does not state the end of his journey, especially when he is still a part of NCT and WayV. Fans are excited to see him navigate through multiple parts rather than renewing and sticking to a single system. While his departure would leave a negative impact on NCT, it will definitely lead to NCT TEN’s career growth through his upcoming transition. And honestly, this could be the start of something bigger in the industry. His choice to choose himself rather than following can inspire other idols to show their potential individually as well.

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