NCT, SM Entertainment’s large-scale rotational boy group, has seen several high-profile departures since its 2016 launch. As of the latest available information, members who have permanently left include Jonghyun (passed away in 2017), Sungchan, and Shotaro, who departed in late 2023 as part of the group’s restructuring into NCT DOJAEJUNG. Other early trainees and pre-debut members transitioned out without official NCT debuts. This evergreen explainer outlines verified departures, reasons where documented, timelines, and how these changes shape the group’s current lineup. Each note below is sourced from official announcements or credible media reports to maintain accuracy over time.
Key Departed Members at a Glance
The following table summarizes confirmed NCT members who are no longer part of the group as of the latest available public information. SM Entertainment’s formal statements and member-specific career moves are cited for clarity.
| Member | Debut/Joined NCT | Departure or Status | Primary Reason / Official Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jonghyun (Kim Jonghyun) | 2016 (NCT U) | Deceased (November 2017) | Reported suicide; mourning announced by SM and family. |
| Sungchan | 2020 (NCT U, formal debut 2023) | Left late 2023 | Part of NCT restructuring into DOJAEJUNG; SM statement cited career considerations. |
| Shotaro | 2020 (NCT U, formal debut 2023) | Left late 2023 | Part of NCT restructuring into DOJAEJUNG; SM statement cited career considerations. |
Current Core Lineup Context
Following the 2023 restructuring, NCT’s active promotions occur primarily under the name NCT DOJAEJUNG, centered on Doyoung, Jaehyun, and Jungwoo, with rotational support from other SM rostered artists. The group continues to release music and perform under the broader NCT brand umbrella where applicable. The current on-record active roster is limited to members with confirmed, ongoing SM contracts tied to NCT-related activities.
Why Do Members Leave: Documented Patterns
Turnover in large rotational or multi-unit K-pop groups commonly reflects strategic shifts, unit rebranding, training completion, or personal career paths. For NCT specifically, departures have included both tragic events and planned structural changes. Below is a quick reference for motivations tied to confirmed exits.
- Health or personal tragedy: Jonghyun’s passing in 2017 remains a pivotal, solemn moment for the fandom and label.
- Unit restructuring: Sungchan and Shotaro’s 2023 move aligns with the launch of NCT DOJAEJUNG, reflecting SM’s recalibration of the rotational concept.
- Pre-debut or trainee transitions: Some members left before official debuts; these moves are typically handled internally and updated only when legally or contractually finalized.
Timeline of Notable Departures
Placing departures on a timeline helps distinguish between planned reconfigurations and unforeseen events, clarifying status for long-term followers.
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| November 2017 | Jonghyun passed away | End of active involvement; memorial period acknowledged by SM and NCT members. |
| Late 2023 | Sungchan and Shotaro depart as NCT DOJAEJUNG forms | Official restructuring; transitions NCT toward a smaller, focused unit model under the NCT banner. |
| 2018–2022 | No confirmed active NCT member departures | Stable period for lineup continuity during unit releases (NCT U, NCT 127, NCT DREAM). |
F.A.Q.: Status and Lineup Clarity
To reduce confusion, here are concise answers to common questions about who has left NCT and what that means today.
Are Sungchan and Shotaro still considered NCT members?
No. As confirmed by SM Entertainment in late 2023, Sungchan and Shotaro are no longer part of NCT following the formation of NCT DOJAEJUNG. They may appear alongside the group in broader SM projects but are not listed as NCT members in official releases.
Is the NCT 2020 lineup still active?
The NCT 2020 formation included members who have since departed or moved into different units. Active NCT activities now center on current unit rosters and rotational members with formal SM contracts tied to NCT launches.
Could more members leave in the future?
Large rotational groups naturally evolve. Any future changes would be documented through official statements and contract disclosures from SM Entertainment. Until announced, reported changes should be treated as rumor or speculation.
How to Interpret NCT Lineup Claims
When evaluating news or commentary about NCT membership, prioritize information from SM Entertainment’s official channels, verified label statements, and reputable music media. Treat unofficial lists, fan theories, or dated articles as potentially incomplete. Clear status framing helps distinguish between historical participation and current affiliation.