Former NCT Member Mark Denies Retirement Rumors, Eyes 'Kid-Pop' Genre

Mark, formerly of the K-pop group NCT, has officially addressed and refuted speculation about his retirement after concluding his contract with SM Entertainment. In a recent YouTube video titled 'The Story So Far and My Future Dreams,' Mark shared his thoughts and feelings following his contract termination in April.

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I wasn't retiring, but the fans didn't know. So I became convinced that I had to release music first.

He revealed that writing his farewell letter was a difficult process, driven by a desire to convey his sincere gratitude to fans for a decade of support. However, the overwhelming response to his letter left him feeling pressured. Mark recalled the confusion and concern among fans and even his family, with questions arising about whether he was retiring, busking, or pursuing other ventures. This experience, he admitted, helped him better understand the fans' perspective.

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I also learned a little more about the fans' perspective at that time.

"I wasn't retiring, but the fans didn't know," Mark explained. "So I became convinced that I had to release music first." He emphasized that his intention was never to retire but to explore new musical directions. Mark also reflected on his personal growth, noting a shift in his perspective on life and music. He spoke of a newfound dream to showcase "good coolness" to the world and to inspire the "next generation" through his music.

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I want to show the world a good kind of coolness, and my dream to show that to the next generation became clear.

Looking ahead, Mark shared insights into his current musical endeavors. He finds inspiration in his nieces and nephews, observing their natural engagement with his music. This led him to question the notion of a separate genre for children's music, realizing that children are exposed to and enjoy the same music as adults. Consequently, he aims to create "kid-pop" that is both enjoyable for children and musically sophisticated, bridging the gap between youthful appeal and artistic quality.

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Children don't have to listen to childish music. Don't children listen to the music adults listen to?