Contract wars to solo stages: From Danielle, Mark and Ten, to Heeseung; idols lead charge as K-pop industry braces for 2026 shift

The K-pop industry is no stranger to lineup changes, but the latest wave of departures has landed with unusual intensity. Back-to-back announcements involving major idols stepping away from groups or agencies have left fans processing rapid shifts across multiple fandoms.

From legal disputes, artistic direction changes, to contract terminations - all have played a role in what is now being seen as a turning point in recent K-pop history. Let's have a look at idols who were either removed or left their groups in 2026.

While not 2026, it was on December 29, 2025 that ADOR - a subsidiary under HYBE - confirmed the termination of Danielle Marsh's exclusive contract. This decision had immediately sent shockwaves through the industry.

The announcement came amid an already ongoing legal dispute between NewJeans and the agency, turning the situation into a larger public controversy rather than a private contractual matter.

Danielle's departure triggered strong emotional reactions from fans, many of whom expressed frustration and concern over the group's ongoing uncertainty.

The agency further escalated attention by stating it intended to hold former CEO Min Hee-jin and a member of Danielle's family accountable for the dispute, reportedly seeking approximately ₩43 billion in damages. The situation remains unresolved and continues to unfold.

On March 10, 2026, Belift Lab announced that Lee Hee-seung would be leaving ENHYPEN after discussions about his artistic direction and future plans.

According to the agency, Heeseung expressed a desire to explore a more individual musical identity, leading to his decision to step away from group activities.

ENHYPEN will continue as a six-member group, while Heeseung prepares for a solo debut under the name 'Evan.'

The news came as a major shock, especially given his central role in shaping the group's performance identity and overall sound.

On April 3, 2026, SM Entertainment announced that it had mutually agreed to end its contract with Mark Lee.

The termination, effective April 8, also marked his official departure from NCT and its sub-units.

The decision stunned fans globally, as Mark has long been viewed as one of the most defining members across multiple NCT units, known for his versatility and consistency.

His exit has sparked widespread discussion about what his departure means for the future structure of NCT as a multi-unit system.

Just days later, on April 6, SM Entertainment confirmed that Chittaphon Leechaiyapornkul, known as TEN, would also be leaving the agency.

However, unlike a full group departure, TEN will continue as a member of both NCT and WayV, with future activities coordinated separately.

This unusual arrangement has drawn significant attention, as it suggests a more flexible and evolving approach to artist participation within group systems.

Fans are closely watching how this model will function in practice moving forward.

With multiple high-profile exits unfolding in quick succession, discussions have intensified around whether K-pop is entering a new phase of artist autonomy and structural change.

While the industry continues to evolve, one constant remains: strong emotional reactions from fans as beloved idols step into uncertain but transformative new chapters.