MANILA, Philippines — Thai singer Chittaphon Leechaiyapornkul, better known as Ten of the K-pop boy band NCT, has followed Mark Lee in exiting the group's label SM Entertainment.
While Lee's departure also marks his exit from NCT and its subgroups, Ten will continue to participate in future group activities on a case-by-case basis, both for NCT and its sub-unit WayV.
SM Entertainment confirmed that Ten's contract with them will expire on April 8, like Mark's, and will not be renewed following a discussion with the artist.
"We thank Ten, who has shown outstanding capabilities as a group member and as a solo artist since his debut," the label said. "We will sincerely support his new journey ahead."
Ten also addressed his departure from SM Entertainment on social media, issuing a message to fans in Korean, English, and Thai.
Related: K-pop star Mark Lee departing NCT, SM Entertainment
The singer reflected on his decade with the agency since debuting as a part of NCT but has "found himself wanting to take on new challenges, explore new possibilities, and discover new versions of himself."
He called SM Entertainment his "home," noting he was the first Thai artist to grow in the label, and expressed gratitude for what he has learned under the agency.
Ten extended the gratitude to all involved in his journey, especially the label's members and staff, as well as fans of NCT and WayV.
"I'm excited to show you new sides of 'Ten' and to evolve in new ways as a solo artist in this next chapter," Ten said as he reiterated he would remain in both groups. "Please continue to give your love and support to NCT, WayV, and me. With all my love."
Outside of NCT, Ten has released two solo Korean extended plays with SM Entertainment and a Japanese one with Avex Trax.