Recently, the K-Pop industry has been on fire ever since the shocking news of NCT Mark’s departure from the group and SM Entertainment.
Mark Lee Withdraws From NCT — Leaves SM Entertainment
Since the news broke out, fans have been experiencing a roller coaster of emotions, including speculation about his reason for leaving.
Fan Theory About The Reason For NCT Mark’s Departure Goes Viral
Most recently, freelance editor and interviewer Hong Milmil posted about Mark’s departure.
Mark was not my bias nor my bias wrecker. If I had to put him in a category, I would be closer to hating him. As one of the only two overlapping members in K-Pop with my bias, he was always an insurmountable figure. He stood at the center of every NCT team, had exceptional skills, and gave his all in everything he did, which so many people loved. He had perfect self-management, communication with fans, and musical prowess. Although I loved my bias, I always envied him, thinking, how could he have it all? The envy was mixed with a sense of dissatisfaction towards someone who was just too accomplished.
— Hong Milmil
They also confessed that the envy they had towards him changed after news of his departure.
Although his departure sparked speculation and rumors, having watched him from the sidelines countless times, I was certain of one thing: he chose to leave not to acquire more, but to acquire what was truly necessary. It wasn’t that the time he spent wasn’t precious, but rather, it was because he had lived more faithfully than anyone else that he was able to leave everything behind and move on. How scared must he have been to take an unknown path? And at the same time, how relieved he must feel? I found myself envying him in a different way than before.
— Hong Milmil
They closed by apologizing to Mark and wished him the best on his future endeavors.
“In every race, the standards for finishing, speed, and method differ. So why did I feel frustrated that my bias Haechan couldn’t run like Mark? The reason I love my bias is that he is a unique person, not Mark or anyone else. Mark has his own race, and bias has its own. I realize that throughout our lives, we are ultimately bound to become ourselves.
I send my apologies to Mark, whom I secretly disliked, and sincerely wish him well on his new journey.”
— Hong Milmil
Meanwhile, Mark recently sent messages to fans for the first time following the withdrawal announcement.
NCT’s Mark Sends First Message To Fans Following Departure From Group