What’s Winwin Doing Now? The Latest on NCT’s Former Member

From Debut to a Sudden Pause

Winwin (real name Dong‑seok Lee) entered the spotlight in 2016 when he joined NCT’s first sub‑unit, NCT 127. Fans quickly fell for his poised stage presence and fluent Mandarin, a rarity among Korean idols. He also became a core member of the Chinese‑focused unit WayV, debuting that same year with a sleek, synth‑driven sound.

For a few years, Winwin balanced activities between Seoul and Shanghai, appearing on variety shows, recording tracks, and touring across Asia. Yet, after the intense promotion cycle for WayV’s “Awakening” in 2019, his public schedule grew noticeably thin, leaving many to wonder what had changed.

The China Hiatus and Return to School

In early 2020, Winwin announced a temporary withdrawal from WayV to focus on his studies. He enrolled at the prestigious Beijing Film Academy, a move that surprised both Korean and Chinese media. The decision aligned with his long‑standing interest in acting, a path he hinted at during early interviews.

While the academy demanded rigorous coursework, Winwin still managed occasional cameos in Chinese dramas, usually as a supporting character. These roles were modest, but they allowed him to hone his on‑camera skills without the pressure of leading‑role expectations.

South Korean Military Service

Compulsory military duty loomed, and in November 2021 Winwin received his enlistment notice. He reported to the 2nd Infantry Division in Goyang, fulfilling the standard 18‑month service required of all South Korean men. The news was met with a wave of supportive messages from fans worldwide, many of whom had already anticipated this chapter.

During basic training, Winwin kept a low profile, focusing on physical drills and unit responsibilities. Yet, he occasionally shared brief updates on social media, showing a glimpse of his determination and camaraderie with fellow soldiers.

Post‑Service Activities and Recent Appearances

Winwin completed his service in May 2023 and was officially discharged on May 23. The moment marked his first public re‑appearance in nearly three years, and the excitement was palpable. He attended a small fan‑meeting in Seoul, where he expressed gratitude and hinted at future projects.

Since his discharge, Winwin has been quietly rebuilding his career. Below are a few notable developments:

• Variety Show Guest Spots: He appeared on the Korean talk show Young Actors’ Talk, discussing his acting training and sharing anecdotes from the army.
• WayV Collaboration: Though not officially back in the group, Winwin contributed a background vocal for WayV’s latest single “Dream Wave,” a subtle nod to his continued musical ties.
• Acting Auditions: Industry insiders report he has been shortlisted for a supporting role in a high‑budget historical drama set to film later this year.

These activities suggest a careful, measured approach—balancing music, acting, and personal growth without rushing back into the relentless idol schedule.

What the Future May Hold

Speculation about Winwin’s return to NCT is inevitable. SM Entertainment has not ruled out the possibility of him rejoining WayV or even participating in a future NCT U project. However, the company’s recent statements emphasize “individual development,” hinting that Winwin might prioritize acting for the time being.

Fans should also keep an eye on cross‑border collaborations. Winwin’s bilingual abilities make him a valuable bridge between Korean and Chinese markets, and upcoming joint ventures could benefit from his unique profile.

FAQ

Q: Is Winwin officially back in WayV?

A: Not yet. He contributed a background vocal to a recent track, but SM Entertainment has not announced a full‑time return.

Q: When will Winwin appear in a drama?

A: He is currently in audition stages for a historical series slated to begin filming in early 2025; no official cast list has been released.

Q: How can fans follow Winwin’s updates?

A: Winwin’s official Instagram and the SM Entertainment fan‑community channels provide the most reliable news, though he posts sparingly.