NCT Kicks Off 10th Anniversary Project: The ‘Neo Universe’ Returns!

NCT’s 10th anniversary project, ‘NCT 2026,’ is officially in motion! Following the announcement last month, concept photos and promotional content for the 21 members have been rolling out. Now, fans are buzzing with excitement for the ‘POP UP : NEO GROUND’ event starting on the 15th.

SM Entertainment unveiled the ‘NCT 10TH ANNIVERSARY [NCT 2026]’ project in April under the slogan ‘EVERYTHING, ALL AT ONCE, NEO.’ This project encapsulates NCT’s 10-year journey that began with ‘The 7th Sense’ in 2016, while charting a new course for the next chapter.

The 10th-anniversary logo, promotional website, and member concept photos have been huge hits among fans. With futuristic graphics, sports-inspired styling, and visuals that highlight each unit’s unique charm, fans have reacted on social media, calling it a “classic NCT universe” and “futuristic like a sci-fi movie.” The concept photos especially caught eyes by using game-character-style profiles, including levels, team names, entry codes, and stats to fit the ‘futurism’ theme.

This project is particularly meaningful as it puts the 21 currently active members center stage. Since debut, NCT has expanded through its ‘infinite expansion’ concept, growing from NCT U to NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, and NCT WISH. During the ‘NCT 2020′ project, a total of 23 members promoted together. After various changes—including military service, solo activities, departures, and contract expirations—’NCT 2026’ is being interpreted as a project to reconnect and reorganize the current lineup of NCT.

Running from the 15th to the 23rd in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, ‘POP UP : NEO GROUND’ is the first offline event of the anniversary project. Based on a ‘Futurism Sports’ concept, the pop-up will feature member visual exhibitions, photo zones, interactive content, and special MD. To add to the sports festival vibe, visitors who complete specific missions will receive a ‘Finisher Medal.’

According to the roadmap, NCT has a jam-packed schedule for the second half of the year. NCT 127 is set to release their 7th full-length album and go on tour in the third quarter, while NCT DREAM will celebrate their own 10th anniversary with a fan meeting and a new album. WayV is preparing their 8th mini album and a tour, and NCT WISH will continue activities with a Japanese single and additional albums. Additionally, the exhibition ‘EXHIBITION : NEO DIMENSION’ is scheduled for the third quarter.

Starting with an experimental system in 2016, NCT has become one of the representative brands in the K-pop market through constant expansion and evolution over the last decade. The ‘NCT 2026’ project is expected to be more than just a celebratory event, serving as a way to reconnect NCT’s scattered narratives and prepare for the next era.