2026 marks a major milestone for NCT, with many members reaching the end of their original contracts. While all seven members of NCT 127 have reportedly renewed with SM Entertainment, Winwin has already parted ways with both the company and the group.
Meanwhile, the contract status of NCT DREAM has yet to be officially announced, leaving fans anxious about the future of the seven-member unit. With the members’ contracts reportedly set to expire in August, every new development has been closely scrutinized.
On July 29, fans discovered that Chenle had officially established his own studio in China. For Chinese idols, opening a personal studio is a common business practice that allows artists to manage solo schedules, endorsements, and domestic activities.
However, similar announcements have sometimes preceded departures from entertainment agencies, causing some fans to fear that Chenle might be preparing for a major career change. The news quickly spread across social media, with speculation intensifying due to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding NCT DREAM’s contracts.
Shortly after the news circulated, Chenle sent a series of messages through Bubble, many of which fans interpreted as a reassuring sign about his future with the group. Speaking about NCT’s upcoming 10th anniversary fan meeting, he wrote: “I think it’ll be fun.”
He continued by encouraging fans to attend if possible, while also comforting those who couldn’t make it. “If you can’t come, I totally understand, so don’t be too disappointed.” Chenle then added a comment that especially caught fans’ attention. “We’ll do it again.” Realizing his words might be misunderstood, he immediately clarified: “I don’t mean we’ll have this exact same fan meeting again, but we’ll definitely have more fan meetings in the future.”
Many fans interpreted Chenle’s repeated references to future fan meetings as an indication that he expects to continue promoting with NCT DREAM beyond this year’s contract period. Rather than signaling an exit, his comments have reassured many supporters that the group still has long-term plans together.
Although neither Chenle nor SM Entertainment has officially commented on the members’ contract renewals, his Bubble messages have eased concerns for many fans who had feared the studio announcement meant he was preparing to leave.
At present, SM Entertainment has not announced the contract renewal status of NCT DREAM. Until an official statement is released, speculation is likely to continue.
For now, however, Chenle’s own words have given fans hope that the group’s future together remains bright as NCT celebrates its milestone 10th anniversary.
Sources: Koreaboo