Chinese artist WINWIN has been on an indefinite hiatus from his groups, NCT 127, NCT U, and WayV, since 2021, after he began focusing on his acting career in China. Now that his contract with SM Entertainment is up for renewal, the 28-year-old actor has decided to end his exclusive contract with the company, focusing on his music and acting careers back in his home country.
SM Entertainment announced the news on Weverse from Seoul on Wednesday early afternoon (Tuesday evening in the U.S.). They thanked NCT fans for their “continued love and unwavering support.” The company revealed that WINWIN will conclude all activities as an NCT member on July 9.
Their statement reads, “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.”
WINWIN debuted as a member of NCT in 2016. He performed with NCT U and NCT 127 until 2018, then joined the NCT Chinese unit, WayV, in 2019. In early 2021, WINWIN moved back to China and established his own private studio, Beijing Zhaoyao Culture Media Studio, to manage his acting career. He took a hiatus from music to focus on acting, starting with reality and variety shows and hosting. He then made his acting debut, starring in the Chinese romantic drama Sweet Games. He began appearing in more dramas, such as Snowfall, Perfect Match, and A Splendid Match, as well as in the film Blades of the Guardians. He is set to star in three more upcoming dramas.
With several of the original members’ contracts coming up for renewal after 10 years, there have been a few surprises with those renewing or leaving the company. Mark Lee, former NCT Dream leader and member of NCT 127 and NCT U, left the company and the group altogether in early April this year. He recently announced that he is starting his own entertainment company to manage his solo career. Thai star TEN did not re-sign with SM Entertainment for his solo activities, opting to create his own entertainment company, ILLIMNT, to cultivate his solo artistry. He did decide to remain with NCT and WayV under SM Entertainment, but only for group activities. Many fans are expecting to hear from the other original members about their contracts, but because the Korean members are required to serve mandatory military service, those contracts have been put on hold until they return.
WINWIN will continue to do his solo activities under his personal studio and Yuekai Entertainment.