WINWIN Leaves SM Entertainment, Ends NCT Journey After 10 Years

WINWIN has officially parted ways with SM Entertainment, bringing his 10-year journey with the company and his activities as a member of NCT to a close.

SM Entertainment announced on July 8 that the two had mutually agreed to end WINWIN's exclusive contract, effective July 9. The agency also confirmed that he would no longer participate in NCT activities.

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

Not long after the announcement, WINWIN shared a letter on Weibo reflecting on his 10 years with the company. Looking back on his journey from trainee to debuting with NCT 127 and later joining WayV, he said that despite the challenges, the memories that stayed with him most were those of happiness, gratitude and the people he met.

He also thanked SM Entertainment for giving him the opportunity to debut and perform around the world, saying those experiences shaped both his career and his life.

Looking ahead, WINWIN said he hopes to continue balancing acting and music while creating work that reflects who he is. He added that he and the company reached the decision after many sincere discussions and on amicable terms.

He ended the letter by thanking fans for standing by him over the years and promising to keep moving forward.

"I will continue moving forward with everything I've gained and all the love I've received," he wrote. "I will keep working hard, stay true to my original aspirations, and become an even better WINWIN."