NCT and WayV member Winwin will officially leave SM Entertainment and end all activities with NCT after his exclusive contract expires on July 9, 2026, the agency announced.
On July 8, SM Entertainment shared the news via NCT’s official Weverse community. The company said the decision was made after careful discussions with the artist and confirmed that his contract will end the following day.
In its announcement, SM Entertainment confirmed: “Winwin will conclude all operations of NCT.”
The agency also thanked the singer for his years with the company, saying, “We thank Winwin, who has been with us for over 10 years since his internship, and will be rooting for his future as he embarks on a new journey.”
The announcement marks the end of Winwin’s decade-long relationship with SM Entertainment, where he trained before making his debut and later became part of one of the company’s largest global groups.
Winwin first debuted in 2016 as a member of NCT 127. Over the years, he also promoted through NCT U and became a member of WayV, NCT’s China-based unit, which officially launched in 2019, ChosunBiz reported. Through these groups, he has built a strong fan base both in South Korea and internationally.
Winwin shifts focus to acting
In recent years, Winwin has spent more time developing his acting career in China. According to AllKPop, starting with the 2023 drama “Sweet Games,” he has expanded his work beyond music by taking lead roles in several television productions. His growing acting schedule led many fans to expect that he would continue to focus on projects in the Chinese entertainment industry.
SM Entertainment did not announce any future agency plans for Winwin or provide further details on his next career move. However, the company expressed its support as he begins the next chapter of his career journey.
Winwin’s departure also continues a series of contract changes involving NCT members this year. In April, his colleague Mark ended his contract with SM Entertainment and left the group. In the same month, Ten also ended his exclusive contract with the agency, but chose to continue promoting as a member of NCT.
Unlike Ten, Winwin’s departure marks the end of all NCT activities, officially closing his chapter with the group.
Since his debut, Winwin has been recognized for his graceful performances, calm personality and dedication to both music and acting. His contributions to NCT 127, NCT U and WayV have helped shape the group’s global growth in recent years.
