Quick Read
- Ten will conclude his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment on April 8, 2026.
- The artist will continue his participation in NCT and WayV through a new split-management arrangement.
- His departure marks a shift in talent retention strategy following the recent exit of fellow member Mark.
SEOUL (Azat TV) – Ten, the multi-hyphenate performer and core member of the global pop groups NCT and WayV, is set to conclude his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment on April 8, 2026. The departure marks a pivotal shift in the agency’s talent management model, as Ten transitions to an independent professional status while maintaining his long-standing commitments to his respective musical acts.
The New Management Model for NCT and WayV
SM Entertainment confirmed the decision on April 6, stating that after extensive discussions regarding the artist’s future, both parties agreed to end their exclusive partnership. Unlike standard industry exits, the arrangement includes a specific provision for Ten’s continued participation in future NCT and WayV group activities. This split management model signals a departure from the traditional, all-encompassing idol contracts that have defined the South Korean entertainment industry for decades, suggesting a more flexible approach to talent retention for high-profile artists.
Ten’s Path Toward Independent Artistic Challenges
In a personal statement shared with fans, Ten reflected on his ten-year tenure with the agency, noting that reaching the age of 30 prompted a period of deep introspection regarding his artistic identity. He expressed gratitude for the support received since his 2016 debut with NCT U, emphasizing that his decision was driven by a desire to explore new creative environments. The artist reaffirmed his commitment to his fans, promising to balance his upcoming solo endeavors with his ongoing responsibilities to his group members.
Shifting Landscape of Talent Retention
The move follows the recent departure of fellow NCT member Mark, who announced on April 3 that he would be leaving both SM Entertainment and his groups, NCT 127 and NCT Dream. The simultaneous exits of these key figures highlight a significant transition period for the NCT brand, which has relied heavily on a unified management structure since its inception. As these artists navigate the complexities of individual career growth, the industry is closely watching how these hybrid contracts will impact the long-term stability and operational logistics of established K-pop groups.
The transition to a split-contract model indicates that SM Entertainment is adapting its business strategy to prioritize artist retention through flexibility, likely as a response to the growing demand for creative autonomy among veteran performers in an increasingly globalized market.