SM Idol Issues Apology After Mentioning Former Member

NCT DREAM’s Chenle is facing backlash after commenting in support of Mark Lee’s new label, sparking a fan divide.

The controversy began when Mark, who recently left SM Entertainment and NCT, announced the launch of his new label, Upper Room. Chenle left a supportive comment on the announcement, which upset some fans unhappy to see a current member react to someone who has left the group.

Fans quickly reacted online, with opinions split on whether Chenle’s comment was appropriate. Some defended the gesture, noting the long friendship between Chenle and Mark. Others felt it was insensitive to mention a former member, especially given the mixed feelings about Mark’s departure.

Soon after the backlash, Chenle addressed fans with a message:

I got into quite a bit of trouble yesterday, but because everything you guys said was right, I am really thankful yet sorry. Keke.
— Chenle

As the situation unfolded, netizens shared mixed reactions:

• “He’s known Mark for over ten years, isn’t it ok to leave a comment?”
• “You think it’s ok to mention a member who left the group even though he left amicably? I wouldn’t like it…”
• “It’s best not to do it if fans don’t like it.”
• “Why are fans being so overdramatic? It’s not like he left in a bad way…why can’t he mention him?”
• “The members are all close, isn’t it ok to mention him?”
• “Czennies just being Czennies..”
• “Who likes a member who left the group being mentioned? He didn’t leave in a good way and had fans crying at the last concert.”

This fan divide highlights ongoing tensions following Mark’s exit from NCT and SM Entertainment. Chenle’s supportive comment and apology have kept the conversation active among fans online.