SM Entertainment has announced that Thai Kpop-star Ten Lee, a member of NCT and its sub-unit WayV, will conclude his exclusive contract with the agency on April 8, 2026.

In a statement released Monday, April 6, the company said the decision followed “careful and extensive discussions” regarding the artist’s future direction, resulting in a mutual agreement to end the contract.

“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,” the agency said on Weverse.

Despite his departure from the label, Ten is expected to continue participating in group activities when possible.

SM Entertainment emphasized that he will remain a member of both NCT and WayV and that communication will continue regarding his involvement in future projects.

“Moving forward, we will continue to stay in close communication to explore opportunities for Ten to participate in WayV and NCT activities, where possible,” the company added.

The agency also expressed gratitude for Ten’s contributions throughout his career, highlighting his artistic versatility and impact on both group and solo projects.

“Throughout his career, Ten has brought a distinctive artistic presence and breadth of talent to both his group and solo work. We sincerely appreciate the time we have shared together, and wish him all the best as he moves forward into a new chapter,” the statement read.

The company reiterated its commitment to supporting WayV’s ongoing promotions and thanked fans for their continued support.

“SM Entertainment remains committed to supporting WayV's ongoing activities, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to fans for the continued love and support. We will continue to do our utmost to honor that support,“ it said.

Meanwhile, Ten took to Instagram Stories to share a heartfelt message with fans, reflecting on his decade-long career since debuting with NCT U in 2016.

“It’s hard to believe that it’s been 10 years since my debut with NCT U in 2016. Looking back, every moment that I’ve spent with you — as a member of NCT, WayV, the SMTOWN family, and as ‘TEN’ whom you’ve come to know, love and support — has been incredibly meaningful to me and I truly cherish every moment of this journey,” he wrote.

“As I approach my 10th anniversary, I’ve 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’ve decided to conclude my exclusive contract with the company," Ten added.

The Kpop-star further said: “SM will always be my ‘home,’ and I will forever be proud to say that I grew up at SM — especially as the first Thai artist to do so. Being given the opportunity to learn, perform and grow as an artist at SM is something that I will always be grateful for and hold close to my heart.”

He also expressed gratitude to those who supported him throughout his career.

“I want to sincerely thank everyone who has been part of my journey over these past 10 years. I am who I am today because of all of you. Thank you to my members and the staff at SM for supporting my decision and, most importantly, thank you to my fans — my Czennies and WayZenNies — who have supported and loved me unconditionally. It means more to me than I can express into words.”

Ten assured fans that he will continue his activities with the group while exploring new opportunities as a solo artist.

“Moving forward, I will continue my activities as Ten of NCT and WayV. At the same time, I’m excited to show you new sides of ‘TEN’ and to evolve in new ways as a solo artist in this next chapter! Please continue to give your love and support to NCT, WayV, and me. With all my love, TEN,” he added.

Ten is part of NCT’s China-based sub-unit WayV, managed by Label V, and is known for songs such as “Love Talk,” “Kick Back,” and “Poppin’ Love.”

The announcement comes just days after fellow NCT member Mark Lee also revealed his departure from the agency and the group.