Former NCT and WayV member Lucas has officially ended his exclusive contract with South Korean agency SM Entertainment, the company confirmed on Friday, April 24.

In a statement released through the global fan platform Weverse, SM Entertainment said its contract with Lucas concluded on April 24. The agency expressed gratitude to fans for their continued support and reflected on the artist’s journey since his trainee days and post-debut activities.

“We sincerely thank fans for the great love and support they have shown Lucas,” the agency said.

“We will cherish every moment shared, from the early trainee days to the various activities LUCAS took part in after his debut, and continue to support him as he begins this new chapter,” it added. “We kindly ask you to support LUCAS's new journey with encouragement.“

Lucas, a Hong Kong-born rapper and performer, debuted in 2018 as a member of the K-pop group NCT and its China-based subunit WayV.

In 2021, he suspended activities following public allegations involving past romantic relationships, including accusations of cheating and inappropriate behavior, which led to a prolonged hiatus from group promotions.

In May 2023, he officially departed from NCT and WayV.

Following his departure, Lucas pursued solo activities and released his debut solo EP “Renegade” in April 2024.

However, his return to the entertainment scene was met with mixed reactions and criticism from portions of the fan community.