Mark Lee Goes Solo: Music for My Present Self

Five months after his departure from SM Entertainment and NCT, K-pop artist Mark has launched his solo career as singer-songwriter Mark Lee with the release of his new single, "My Friend." This mid-tempo track, featuring a breezy guitar loop, evokes a refreshing and laid-back mood, tinged with nostalgia as summer concludes. Lee expressed his conviction that the unexpected directions and styles of his new music truly represent his present self. His first solo album, "The Firstfruit," is scheduled for release in 2025, and it aims to showcase his growth as a solo artist. Lee secured the No. 1 spot on Billboard's 25 Best K-Pop Albums of 2025: Staff Picks with this album. He stated his future aspiration is to make music for a long time, focusing on spreading a positive influence rather than intense competition. In a Q&A, Mark discussed how his environmental and musical changes influenced "My Friend," noting it felt like a new challenge that solidified his mindset as a full-fledged singer-songwriter. He also revealed that the lyrics for "My Friend" were revised multiple times, with the theme evolving to "the greatest love" and the title becoming special due to his fans already being "Mark Friends." The music video for "My Friend" adopts a minimal, natural aesthetic, contrasting with typical K-pop visuals, reflecting Lee's pursuit of authenticity. He collaborated with director Gus Black, appreciating the seamless synergy and shared understanding of the song's visual conveyance. Additionally, Mark is developing "Kids-POP" for children, aiming to deliver positive messages and virtuous standards. He has also established Upper Room, a creative company, marking a new beginning as both an artist and CEO, focusing on synergistic creative activities within an independent production environment.