On April 6, 2026, SM Entertainment, one of South Korea’s powerhouse K-pop agencies, announced a major shift for one of its most prominent international stars: Ten, the Thai-born singer-dancer celebrated for his versatility and artistry, will end his exclusive contract with the company on April 8. Yet, in a move that bucks the usual trend of agency departures, Ten will remain an active member of both NCT and WayV, continuing his journey with the groups that made him a global name.
The news, which broke through official press releases and was echoed across fan communities worldwide, marks a significant milestone not only for Ten but also for SM Entertainment and the broader K-pop industry. According to Korea JoongAng Daily, SM Entertainment stated, “After a lengthy discussion with Ten regarding his future activities, we have decided to end his exclusive contract on April 8.” The agency expressed gratitude for Ten’s “outstanding capabilities as a group member and as a solo artist since his debut,” and pledged to “sincerely support his new journey ahead.”
Ten’s departure from SM Entertainment’s roster comes after what the company described as “in-depth discussions” and “a thorough review of Ten’s future career direction,” as reported by Malay Mail. The agency was keen to stress that while Ten’s exclusive contract is ending, his commitment to NCT and WayV remains intact. “We will continue to communicate with Ten so that he can participate in WayV and NCT’s future activities,” SM Entertainment said, reassuring fans that the singer’s presence in the groups will not be interrupted by the contractual change.
Ten, whose full name is Chittaphon Leechaiyapornkul, has been a trailblazer since his debut in April 2016 as part of NCT U, the first subunit of NCT, with the hit single “The 7th Sense.” He quickly established himself as a core member of NCT, as well as WayV—the unit targeting the Chinese market—and the global project group SuperM, which launched in 2019 in partnership with Capitol Music Group. Notably, Ten was the first Thai artist to debut under SM Entertainment, a fact he has often referenced with pride in interviews and fan messages.
Beyond his group activities, Ten has forged a successful solo career. In 2024 and 2025, he released two solo EPs, Ten and Stunner. The debut album soared to No. 3 on the Circle Album Chart and No. 6 on the Japanese Oricon Albums Chart, while his second mini-album topped iTunes charts in 13 cities, including Poland, Chile, Peru, and New Zealand. His reputation as one of K-pop’s most versatile performers—especially as the main dancer for WayV—has only grown with each project.
In a heartfelt statement shared on social media on April 6, Ten addressed his fans, known as Czennies and WayZenNies. “It’s hard to believe that it’s been 10 years since my debut with NCT U in 2016!” he wrote. “Looking back, every moment that I’ve spent with you – as a member of NCT, WayV, the SMTOWN family, and as ‘TEN’ whom you’ve come to know, love, and support – has been incredibly meaningful to me and I truly cherish every moment of this journey.”
Ten explained that as he approached his 30th birthday, he began to reflect on his future and the kind of artist—and person—he wanted to become. “I’ve found myself wanting to take on new challenges, explore new possibilities, and discover new versions of myself. So, after a lot of thought and many heartfelt discussions with the members and the staff at SM, I’ve decided to conclude my exclusive contract with the company.”
He added, “SM will always be my ‘home’, and I will forever be proud to say that I grew up at SM – especially as the first Thai artist to do so! Being given the opportunity to learn, perform, and grow as an artist at SM is something that I will always be grateful for and hold close to my heart.” Ten also thanked his fellow members and the staff at SM for supporting his decision, and, most importantly, expressed deep gratitude to his fans: “I am who I am today because of all of you.”
Despite the contractual change, Ten reassured fans that he will continue his activities with NCT and WayV. “Moving forward, I will continue my activities as Ten of NCT and WayV. At the same time, I’m excited to show you new sides of ‘TEN’ and to evolve in new ways as a solo artist in this next chapter. Please continue to give your love and support to NCT, WayV, and me.”
SM Entertainment, for its part, underscored its commitment to Ten’s ongoing group activities. In a statement published by Xportsnews, the agency said, “We will continue to provide our full support for the activities of the WayV members, and for the fans who support WayV, we will do our very best.” The company also praised Ten’s “distinctive artistic presence and breadth of talent” and wished him “all the best as he moves forward into a new chapter.”
Ten’s decision to separate his solo career from his agency contract, while maintaining his group memberships, reflects a growing trend in the K-pop industry. Artists such as all members of BLACKPINK, SHINee’s Taemin, EXO’s D.O., 2NE1’s CL, and Pentagon’s KINO have adopted similar approaches, seeking greater flexibility and personal growth while staying connected to their groups’ legacy and fan communities.
The timing of Ten’s announcement is also notable, coming just days after SM Entertainment revealed that fellow NCT member Mark would leave both the agency and the band on April 8. Mark’s departure from NCT 127 and NCT Dream signals a period of transition for the agency’s flagship boy group, further underscoring the evolving landscape of K-pop contracts and group dynamics.
For Ten, the path ahead is both uncertain and full of promise. As he put it in his message to fans, “I know this choice was not an easy one, and I understand that the direction of my life could change significantly from here. But I will take responsibility for my decision and move forward doing my best, without regrets.”
With his artistry, dedication, and the unwavering support of his fans and colleagues, Ten is poised to embark on a new chapter—one that honors his past while embracing the future with open arms.