WINWIN Announces Departure from SM Entertainment After Over a Decade with NCT*

KUNSHAN, CHINA – OCTOBER 29: Singer Dong Sicheng aka Winwin attends the CIGALONG Jewelry Party on October 29, 2025 in Kunshan, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province of China. (Photo by VCG/VCG via Getty Images)

VCG via Getty Images

Chinese artist WINWIN has officially parted ways with SM Entertainment, concluding his decade-long journey with the Korean entertainment company. The 28-year-old performer, whose real name is Dong Sicheng, will exit from all NCT units—NCT 127, NCT U, and WayV—with his final activities wrapping up on July 9. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter in his career, as he shifts focus back to mainland China to pursue both music and acting endeavors.

SM Entertainment confirmed the news through its Weverse platform on Wednesday, expressing gratitude to fans for their steadfast support. In their statement, the agency reflected on WINWIN’s journey, noting, “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 with NCT in 2016 and later joined the franchise’s Chinese unit, WayV, in 2019. His journey with SM began to take a new turn in early 2021 when he relocated to China and launched his own studio, Beijing Zhaoyao Culture Media Studio, to manage his burgeoning acting career. Since stepping away from music in 2021, he has built a strong presence in Chinese entertainment through roles in dramas like Sweet Games, Snowfall, Perfect Match, and A Splendid Match, along with the film Blades of the Guardians*. He is currently in talks for three additional drama projects.

WINWIN’s exit comes amid a broader wave of contract negotiations involving original NCT members whose agreements expired after ten years. Mark Lee, former leader of NCT Dream and member of NCT 127 and NCT U, officially left SM Entertainment in April, later founding his own agency. Meanwhile, Thai artist TEN chose not to renew his solo contract but continues with SM for group activities under a new entity, ILLIMNT. As Korean members face mandatory military service obligations, their contract renewals remain pending, leaving fans eagerly anticipating future announcements.

From this point forward, WINWIN will continue his solo pursuits through his personal studio in collaboration with Yuekai Entertainment.

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