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TEN Opens Up About Leaving SM Entertainment and Building His Solo Career

By Mariana A Nov 14, 2026 | 2:26 AM

TEN is taking greater control of his music career after leaving SM Entertainment in April 2026 and establishing his own creative agency, ILLIMNT.

In a recent interview in Los Angeles, the Thailand-born singer explained that his decision came from wanting to explore personal ideas and take creative risks. He emphasized that the move was not driven by problems with his former company.

Known for his work with NCT, WayV, and SuperM, TEN continues to maintain ties with his group members, who supported his decision to pursue an independent path.

His latest chapter includes the English-language EP OUTWEST and his first solo headlining tour across the United States. The 14-city tour concluded in New York on November 10, following performances in Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, and other cities.

TEN also celebrated his tenth anniversary in entertainment with three concerts in Bangkok earlier this year.

Through ILLIMNT, he now takes a more active role in developing music, visual concepts, and future projects.

The singer is planning a larger world tour in 2027 while continuing to explore opportunities for international performances.