Mark Lee steps into a new era with “My Friend,” a gentle and deeply personal song centered on the power of love, loyalty and human connection. Released on September 10, 2026, the track follows his departure from NCT and marks one of the first major releases of his independent career.
Rather than returning with the forceful rap or experimental production many listeners may associate with his previous work, Mark chooses a softer approach. Warm guitar, restrained percussion and an easygoing melody give “My Friend” the relaxed atmosphere of a song shared during a quiet conversation. His performance is sincere and unguarded, allowing the message to remain at the center.
The identity of the “friend” is deliberately left open. The lyrics can be heard as a promise to someone deeply loved, a message to the people who have supported him or an expression of Mark’s Christian faith. Mark has explained that the song was inspired partly by the biblical idea that the greatest love is being willing to lay down one’s life for a friend. However, he also wanted its message to reach beyond a single relationship or interpretation.
That openness is what gives “My Friend” its emotional pull. It asks listeners to imagine a world in which friendship is not merely companionship but an active form of love—one built upon sacrifice, reassurance and the decision to remain beside someone when life becomes difficult.
The accompanying music video extends that sense of warmth and sincerity. Its intimate presentation places Mark in a more reflective setting, visually separating this new chapter from the elaborate machinery of his years within the K-pop group system. This is Mark Lee introducing himself again, this time entirely on his own terms.
“My Friend” may be quieter than some expected, but that appears to be the point. Instead of announcing his independence with fireworks, Mark offers an open hand. The result is a tender beginning to his next chapter and a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful kind of love begins with two simple words: my friend.
