K-pop Star Winwin Leaves SM Entertainment After 10 Years
K-pop star Winwin is leaving SM Entertainment and NCT after a decade with the agency, effective July 9, 2025, to pursue solo projects through his own studio.
SM Entertainment officially announced that Winwin, also known as Dong Si Cheng, has ended his contract with the agency and will step down as a member of NCT after 10 years of collaboration. The agreement takes effect on July 9, 2025, following amicable communication and consultation between both parties. From the contract termination date onward, all of Winwin's entertainment work will be managed exclusively by his own studio.
Winwin shared his feelings about the departure, saying that the past 10 years have passed quickly. He expressed gratitude to SM Entertainment for giving him the opportunity to debut as a trainee and become a member of NCT 127 and WayV, as well as perform on stages around the world. Reflecting on the decade, despite experiencing difficult, exhausting, and disappointing moments, he cherishes the joy, impressions, and precious memories more. These experiences and memories have been the driving force that helped him grow into who he is today. The past 10 years will remain the most valuable memories of his life.
He also thanked all his fans, especially Czennie and WayZenNi, for their continuous support and companionship. He will not forget his initial dreams, will continue to develop himself, and hopes that his fans will experience only happiness, peace, and fulfillment in everything.