Mark Lee’s Music Activities Draw Attention Over Alleged NCT “Shade”

Since Mark Lee‘s departure from NCT and SM Entertainment, eyes have been on the idol in anticipation of his future plans.

In his departure letter, the idol was clear that he would continue making music but did not go into detail about how. He has since been spotted in the United States at various locations, and recent social media activity has provided some hints.

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Other hints have come from others in the music industry, like a recent update.

On May 14, Marcus Mims, a songwriter, producer, and music engineer, shared an image of him with Mark on his social media, the first indirect update from the idol in a bit.

While fans were thrilled over the update, some couldn’t help but notice the caption Mims used. Mims expressing that he had a good time working with Mark, describing him as “fresh out of @nct.”

Though the caption was likely not meant in any negative way, many were surprised by the outright mention of his former group. Some joked about the “shady” caption, while admitting that it still stung to see.

“fresh out of nct”

why did he phrase it like mark just got released on parole 😭

— markhyuckism | cyii (@cyii_kyuu) May 15, 2026

pic.twitter.com/XevACwu2B9

— haebear (@haesteroid) May 15, 2026

“fresh out of nct” the wound just split open again shut up omg pic.twitter.com/0YTnbtJi5M

— 💭 (@hyucktuah) May 15, 2026

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