Winwin leaves NCT, SM Entertainment

NCT's Winwin has officially parted ways with the group and his talent agency SM Entertainment.

In a July 8 statement released through fandom platform Weverse, SM Entertainment said it had mutually agreed with Winwin to terminate his exclusive contract.

"Following careful discussions with WinWin, we have mutually agreed to conclude his exclusive contract, effective July 9. Accordingly, WinWin will conclude all activities as a member of NCT," the statement read. 

“We are deeply grateful to WinWin, who has been with SM Entertainment for more than 10 years since his trainee days. We sincerely thank him for the time we have shared together and wholeheartedly support him as he embarks on a new journey," it continued. 

In an Instagram post, Winwin recounted his memories and expressed gratitude to the agency and his fans. 

"When I was still young and inexperienced, SM gave me the opportunity to debut as a member. They also gave me the chance to stand on stages around the world and meet all of you. From the very first moment I stepped on stage as an SM artist until now, I know I wouldn’t be the person I am today without those experiences," his Korean statement read in English.

"These past 10 years will remain one of the most precious chapters of my life for years to come," he added. 

Winwin first debuted with NCT 127 in 2016 before joining the group's China-based sub-unit, WayV, in 2019. He later founded his own studio in China in 2021 and has since been actively pursuing solo entertainment projects, including TV appearances.

He is the latest member to leave the agency and the group this year following Mark and Lucas' departure. Ten also left the agency but continues to be a member of NCT.