By Lina Irawan 
The K-pop world was recently met with a significant announcement as Dong Sicheng, professionally known as Winwin, confirmed his decision not to renew his contract with SM Entertainment, effectively signaling his departure from the agency and the popular groups NCT and WayV. This news, which deeply saddened his dedicated fanbase, known as NCTzens and WayZenNis, was followed by a poignant, extensive letter from Winwin himself, shared across his personal social media platforms, aimed at assuaging fan anxieties and reflecting on his decade-long career. His contract with SM Entertainment is reportedly set to officially conclude on July 9, 2026, indicating a pre-announced non-renewal decision that brings an end to his active participation in the groups.
The Journey of Dong Sicheng: From Trainee to Global Idol
Winwin’s trajectory in the K-pop industry began when he was scouted by SM Entertainment in 2013 while studying at the Affiliated Secondary School of Beijing Dance Academy. His exceptional dance skills and captivating visuals quickly marked him as a promising talent. After years of rigorous training under the highly competitive SM Rookies program, he made his highly anticipated debut in April 2016 as a member of NCT U, one of the rotational units of SM Entertainment’s innovative, multi-unit boy group, NCT. The NCT brand was designed with a unique concept of limitless members and multiple sub-units based in various cities worldwide, allowing for diverse global activities.
Later that year, Winwin became a founding member of NCT 127, the Seoul-based fixed unit of NCT, known for its powerful performances and experimental sound. His role as a dancer and vocalist within NCT 127 contributed significantly to the group’s early success, helping to establish their distinct identity within the burgeoning K-pop landscape. However, his journey took another significant turn in 2019 with the formation of WayV, a sub-unit of NCT specifically designed to target the Chinese market. As a native Mandarin speaker, Winwin became a pivotal member of WayV, contributing to their unique sound and performance style, which blended K-pop aesthetics with C-pop influences. WayV quickly garnered a substantial following, solidifying Winwin’s presence as a prominent figure in both the Korean and Chinese entertainment industries. Throughout his tenure, Winwin was celebrated for his elegant dance lines, calm demeanor, and genuine interactions with fans, building a strong connection with a global audience. His dual roles in NCT 127 and WayV showcased his versatility and dedication, making him a beloved member across different fan segments.
A Decade in Review: Winwin’s Heartfelt Message to Fans
Following the initial wave of shock and sadness among fans, Winwin took to his personal social media accounts to share a lengthy, heartfelt letter, offering clarity and emotional reassurance. The letter, which quickly went viral, provided an intimate glimpse into his reflections on his journey with SM Entertainment. "10 years have passed so quickly. Looking back at this past decade, I wanted to write this letter from the bottom of my heart," Winwin wrote, as translated from his original post on Friday, July 10. He articulated a profound sense of gratitude, recalling the entirety of his career, from his initial days as a trainee to his debut with NCT U and NCT 127, and subsequently with WayV. "From the beginning of my career as a trainee to debuting as a member of NCT 127 and then WayV, I am filled with gratitude for everyone I’ve met and the precious relationships I’ve forged over the past 10 years," he stated, emphasizing the human connections that defined his path.
Winwin confessed that revisiting old photographs from his career with SM Entertainment evoked a cascade of emotional memories. He acknowledged not only the exhaustion and difficult days he faced but also the profound joy and happiness he experienced. He firmly asserted that every memory, regardless of its scale or nature, constituted a valuable experience. Ultimately, he credited these collective experiences over the past decade with SM Entertainment as the greatest strength and foundation for his ongoing career as an idol. "From the first time I stepped onto the stage as an SM artist until now, I know I wouldn’t be the person I am today without those experiences, and I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to meet so many people who love me," he reflected. He concluded this introspective section by affirming, "These past ten years will remain one of the most precious chapters of my life for years to come."
The letter culminated in a sincere expression of thanks to the fans of NCT, NCTzens, and WayV, WayZenNis. He conveyed his hope that all the shared moments and memories from the past decade would remain warm and cherished. Winwin also made a solemn promise to never forget his initial dreams when he first debuted and to continually strive for self-improvement. "I will continue to do my best with a steadfast heart and keep growing into a better version of myself. To everyone reading this letter, I wish you peace, happiness, and good fortune," he penned, before concluding with a heartfelt wish: "I truly hope all your dreams come true." His message was a blend of nostalgia, gratitude, and forward-looking determination, designed to comfort and inspire his global fanbase.
Chronology of a K-Pop Career
Winwin’s journey with SM Entertainment spans over a decade, marked by significant milestones:
- Circa 2013-2014: Scouted by SM Entertainment and begins his trainee period. His "10 years" statement likely refers to this period until his contract’s reported end in 2026.
- 2016 (April): Introduced as part of SM Rookies, SM Entertainment’s pre-debut training team.
- 2016 (April 9): Debuts as a member of NCT U with the track "The 7th Sense," marking his official entry into the K-pop scene.
- 2016 (July 7): Debuts as a member of NCT 127 with their first mini-album "NCT #127," solidifying his role in the fixed Seoul-based unit.
- 2019 (January 17): Debuts as a member of WayV, the China-focused sub-unit of NCT, with their digital EP "The Vision," featuring a Mandarin version of NCT 127’s "Regular." This move saw him primarily focusing on WayV activities, with reduced participation in NCT 127.
- 2021 Onwards: Begins to pursue individual activities in China, including acting roles in dramas like "The Shadow" and "Sweet and Sour," as well as fashion endorsements. This period saw a gradual shift in his primary base of operations.
- Current Announcement (July 2024): News breaks of his decision not to renew his contract with SM Entertainment and his departure from NCT and WayV.
- July 9, 2026: Reported official end date of his contract with SM Entertainment, marking the formal conclusion of his contractual obligations.
Industry Context: The Trend of Chinese Idols in K-Pop
Winwin’s departure from SM Entertainment and its associated groups is not an isolated incident but rather indicative of a recurring pattern within the K-pop industry concerning Chinese idols. Over the past decade, numerous Chinese members who debuted in prominent K-pop groups have eventually returned to China to pursue solo careers, often citing better opportunities, cultural familiarity, or differing contractual expectations. Notable examples include former EXO members Luhan, Kris Wu, and Tao, all of whom departed SM Entertainment to establish highly successful careers in the Chinese entertainment market. Even Lay Zhang, another Chinese member of EXO, significantly reduced his activities with the group over the years to focus on his burgeoning career in China, eventually parting ways with SM Entertainment in 2022 while maintaining his status as an EXO member.
This trend highlights several underlying factors. The vast and rapidly expanding Chinese entertainment market offers immense opportunities for artists, particularly those who already possess a significant fanbase from their K-pop activities. Language and cultural barriers can also create challenges for Chinese idols in Korea, making a return to their home country a more comfortable and strategically advantageous choice. Furthermore, the rigorous training systems and demanding schedules of K-pop, coupled with stricter contractual terms, sometimes contrast with the more flexible and often lucrative opportunities available in China, especially in acting and variety shows. For agencies like SM Entertainment, managing and retaining foreign talent, particularly from China, has proven to be a continuous challenge, requiring adaptable strategies that balance global group activities with individual member aspirations and national market demands. Winwin’s trajectory, moving towards individual activities in China prior to his contract’s end, aligns perfectly with this established pattern.
Implications for NCT and WayV
Winwin’s departure carries significant implications for both NCT and, more specifically, WayV. For NCT as a whole, which operates on a dynamic, rotational concept, the loss of a member is arguably less structurally disruptive than for a traditional fixed group. However, Winwin was a distinct and beloved presence, especially within NCT 127’s early formation and later as a core member of WayV. His unique performance style and charming personality contributed to the group’s overall appeal.
For WayV, Winwin’s absence will be felt more profoundly. As a group explicitly formed to target the Chinese market, his native Chinese fluency and established presence were invaluable. WayV currently consists of Kun, Ten, Xiaojun, Hendery, and Yangyang. While the remaining members are highly talented and capable of carrying the group forward, the dynamic created by Winwin’s presence will undoubtedly shift. WayV has built a strong identity rooted in its members’ chemistry and individual strengths. The group will likely continue its activities, leveraging its existing fanbase and the remaining members’ talents, but will need to recalibrate its internal dynamics and performance formations. SM Entertainment has historically chosen not to replace members who depart established units, suggesting that WayV will continue as a five-member group. This necessitates a strategic re-evaluation of their promotional activities and creative direction to maintain momentum in both the Chinese and international markets.
Winwin’s Future Endeavors
With his contract officially concluding in 2026 and his active participation in NCT and WayV ceasing, Winwin is poised to fully embark on his solo career, predominantly in China. His prior ventures into acting, such as his roles in the Chinese dramas "The Shadow" and "Sweet and Sour," indicate a clear path towards expanding his portfolio in the acting industry. These projects have already allowed him to cultivate a strong individual presence and fan base in China, separate from his idol group activities.
Beyond acting, Winwin’s considerable influence in fashion and his artistic sensibilities suggest potential opportunities in modeling, brand endorsements, and perhaps even solo music releases. The Chinese entertainment market offers a broad spectrum for celebrities to diversify their careers across film, television, music, and commercial ventures. Given his strong foundation, extensive training, and established public image, Winwin is well-positioned to achieve significant success as a multi-faceted entertainer in his home country. His promise to continue doing his best and not forget his dreams reinforces the idea that he is eager to explore new creative avenues and build upon the experiences gained during his time with SM Entertainment.
SM Entertainment’s Evolving Strategy
Winwin’s departure underscores the ongoing challenges faced by major K-pop agencies like SM Entertainment in managing a globalized talent roster. While SM has been at the forefront of the Hallyu wave and has successfully debuted numerous foreign idols, the long-term retention of these talents, particularly those from China, remains a complex issue. The agency must continually adapt its strategies to accommodate the individual aspirations of its artists, the demands of diverse markets, and the evolving dynamics of the global entertainment industry. This includes exploring more flexible contract structures, supporting individual activities alongside group promotions, and fostering an environment where artists feel empowered to pursue their personal and professional goals.
The experience with Winwin, following similar instances with other Chinese idols, will likely contribute to SM Entertainment’s ongoing refinement of its talent management and international market strategies. The agency’s ability to navigate these departures gracefully, as implied by Winwin’s positive and grateful letter, is crucial for maintaining its reputation and fostering positive relationships with its former artists, which can, in turn, influence future talent recruitment and international collaborations.
Fan Sentiment: A Bittersweet Farewell
The initial reaction from NCTzens and WayZenNis was, predictably, one of heartbreak and concern. Winwin has been a beloved figure since his trainee days, and his departure marks the end of an era for many who followed his journey within NCT and WayV. However, the emotional letter he shared quickly shifted the sentiment from despair to understanding and support. Fans expressed a bittersweet acceptance, acknowledging his hard work and dedication over the past decade while wishing him well in his future endeavors. Social media was flooded with messages of love, encouragement, and gratitude for his contributions to the groups. The collective sentiment reflects a mature fanbase that prioritizes the artist’s well-being and personal growth, even if it means saying goodbye to a cherished member. Many fans expressed excitement for his solo career, promising to continue their support as he embarks on this new chapter.
Winwin’s departure from SM Entertainment, NCT, and WayV closes a significant chapter in his life and career, marked by a decade of growth, challenges, and immense success. His heartfelt letter served as a poignant farewell, expressing deep gratitude to his agency, fellow members, and, most importantly, his dedicated fanbase. As he looks towards a future brimming with solo opportunities in the Chinese entertainment industry, his legacy within NCT and WayV will undoubtedly remain a warm and cherished memory for fans worldwide, symbolizing his journey from a promising trainee to a globally recognized idol. His promise to continue striving for his dreams resonates as a testament to his unwavering dedication, ensuring that this is not an end, but merely a new beginning for Dong Sicheng.
