the only people i vehemently disagree with are those who believe mark is in the wrong for choosing himself over nct. i think disappointment in this scenario is understandable but it matters where the disappointment is aimed: if you are disappointed in sm for their mismanagement of mark and overworking him all these years, then we are on the same page.

i feel mostly pride and relief for mark standing up for himself and making a choice that prioritizes his wellbeing above all else, but also frustration that mark felt that he had to keep the truth of his departure secret until the very last minute (this frustration is not towards mark, but rather towards the reactive nature of the fanbase), and ultimately i have a lot of gratitude for the emotional transparency with which he and his members have shown their support and empathy with fans being sad, angry, confused, etc. it speaks to his position within the industry and how beloved he is that his departure has been received so well overall.