Mark Lee to Release First Single Since Leaving NCT
Published September 9, 2026 10:23 PM
Sharon Jung
Courtesy of Upper Room
Mark Lee is set to release his first new song since leaving SM Entertainment and NCT.
The single, titled “My Friend,” will arrive on music platforms worldwide at 1 p.m. KST on Sept. 10. It is his first release through Upper Room, the creative company he established following his departure.
“My Friend” is a mid-tempo pop track built around a wistful guitar loop. The song reflects on the meaning of love while addressing the transition from one chapter to a new beginning. Mark contributed to its lyrics, composition and arrangement.
The accompanying music video limits the use of computer-generated imagery and other artificial effects, focusing instead on physical locations and performers. Its visual approach continues the “Back to Basic” direction introduced through earlier teasers.
The video was directed by Gus Black, whose previous work includes music videos for American singer-songwriter sombr.
Mark concluded his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment on April 8 and withdrew from NCT, NCT 127 and NCT DREAM. He subsequently founded Upper Room to manage the next phase of his independent work.
He has also introduced new fan communication channels, including “MARK’s Voice Mailbox” and the Laylo platform. A Weverse membership opened on Sept. 9.
SayArt.net Sharon Jung guhuijeong784@gmail.com
“My Friend” marks his first music release through newly established creative company Upper RoomCourtesy of Upper Room
Mark Lee is set to release his first new song since leaving SM Entertainment and NCT.
The single, titled “My Friend,” will arrive on music platforms worldwide at 1 p.m. KST on Sept. 10. It is his first release through Upper Room, the creative company he established following his departure.
“My Friend” is a mid-tempo pop track built around a wistful guitar loop. The song reflects on the meaning of love while addressing the transition from one chapter to a new beginning. Mark contributed to its lyrics, composition and arrangement.
The accompanying music video limits the use of computer-generated imagery and other artificial effects, focusing instead on physical locations and performers. Its visual approach continues the “Back to Basic” direction introduced through earlier teasers.
The video was directed by Gus Black, whose previous work includes music videos for American singer-songwriter sombr.
Mark concluded his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment on April 8 and withdrew from NCT, NCT 127 and NCT DREAM. He subsequently founded Upper Room to manage the next phase of his independent work.
He has also introduced new fan communication channels, including “MARK’s Voice Mailbox” and the Laylo platform. A Weverse membership opened on Sept. 9.
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