NCT member Winwin (Dong Sicheng) will officially part ways with SM Entertainment, ending his long-running journey with both the agency and NCT.
On July 8, SM Entertainment announced, “After thorough discussions with our artist Winwin, we have mutually agreed to conclude his exclusive contract effective July 9. Accordingly, Winwin will end all of his activities as a member of NCT.”
The agency added, “We sincerely thank Winwin for spending more than 10 years with us, beginning from his trainee days. We wish him all the best as he embarks on a new chapter in his career.”
Winwin’s departure marks the third NCT member to leave SM Entertainment this year. In April, Mark concluded his exclusive contract with the company and wrapped up all activities with NCT 127, NCT Dream, and the broader NCT project. Later that same month, Ten also left SM.
However, unlike Winwin, Ten’s departure came with confirmation from SM that the company would continue coordinating his participation in WayV and NCT group activities. In Winwin’s case, the agency confirmed that he will end all NCT-related activities.
Many fans believe the decision was expected. Winwin stopped participating in NCT 127 promotions in late 2018 and gradually shifted his focus toward activities in China. In 2021, he established his own personal studio to manage his acting career in the Chinese entertainment industry.
His departure comes as NCT prepares to launch its ambitious 10th anniversary project. SM Entertainment recently unveiled the roadmap for NCT 2026, which will include a new album, concert tour, pop-up events, and exhibitions. The company described the project as an effort to reconnect the stories of NCT’s various units while opening the door to the group’s next era.
Winwin has not yet announced his future plans. However, in May, online communities and several overseas media outlets reported rumors that he had signed with a Chinese management company, although those claims have not been officially confirmed.
Sources: Daum
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