WINWIN has decided to end his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment and will conclude all NCT-related activities.
Agency departure
His management agency announced the news in a statement on the global fan community Weverse, revealing that both parties had mutually agreed to terminate the contract, effective July 9.
“We are deeply grateful to WINWIN, who has been with SM Entertainment for more than 10 years since his trainee days. We sincerely thank him for the time we have shared together and wholeheartedly support him as he embarks on a new journey,” it further added.
The post did not specify whether the 28-year-old would continue as a member of WayV, the Chinese subgroup of NCT. However, he plans to focus on his solo acting and entertainment career in China.
WINWIN is the third NCT member to depart in 2026, following MARK and LUCAS, who both left in April. TEN also parted ways with SM Entertainment that month but has decided to remain a member of NCT and WayV and continue participating in the groups’ activities.
Farewell letter
WINWIN also penned a letter in Korean to fans on his personal Instagram account.
Decadelong career
Winwin debuted with NCT 127 in 2016 before becoming a member of the China-based unit WayV in 2019, where he spent most of his career. Since 2021, he has largely focused on his activities in China, pursuing acting roles and solo ventures alongside his work with the group.
He traveled to Abu Dhabi for the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025, where he was spotted with fellow NCT member Chenle at Etihad Arena on Yas Island last October.