NCT Dream, despite their massive fanbase and undeniable talent, are often perceived as having fewer solo activities compared to other NCT units like 127, Wish, and WayV. This discrepancy has fueled much discussion and frustration among fans, who are eager to see the members shine individually. While various theories have circulated, the lack of solo schedules (music, acting, presenting, TV appearances, fashion, YouTube, magazine covers, etc.) for most Dream members remains a hot topic.
The Background: A History of Limited Solo Opportunities
Historically, fans attributed the limited solo activities to SM Entertainment prioritizing NCT 127, the members’ young age, or scheduling conflicts. However, with NCT 127‘s enlistment era underway and still limited solo work for non-Mark Dream members, these explanations seem less convincing. WayV, despite having a smaller fanbase, enjoys more individual activities, with members like Xiaojun, Ten, Kun, and Hendery actively participating in various projects. Even within NCT 127, members like Yuta and Jungwoo have explored solo avenues like presenting, acting, fashion ambassadorships, magazine covers, and even solo releases/subunits.
The Current Situation: A Disparity in Opportunities
Aside from occasional magazine covers, Jaemin‘s acting/photography, and Jeno‘s fashion work, the other Dream members have had significantly fewer solo opportunities compared to their NCT counterparts. This perceived underutilization of talents, especially considering the massive fanbase of the “three Js” (Jaemin, Jeno, Jisung) and Haechan, baffles fans. SM Entertainment’s focus on profit and publicity makes this situation even more perplexing.
Exploring the Possible Reasons: A Multifaceted Issue
Several theories attempt to explain the lack of solo schedules for Dream:
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SM’s Internal Policies: Some fans speculate that SM might be deliberately limiting solo activities for Dream, possibly for reasons related to contract negotiations, control over the group’s image, or a lack of internal resources to manage multiple solo careers alongside three units. The idea that SM might be prioritizing older members or those who debuted first for solo opportunities also surfaces. There is a suggestion that SM may be holding back solo activities for Dream until the rest of 127 is enlisted to avoid internal competition within the NCT brand.
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The Members’ Preferences: Another possibility is that the Dream members, having been in the public eye from a young age, might prioritize personal time over individual projects. However, comments from members like Jaemin suggest their willingness to engage in solo activities.
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SM’s Incompetence and Mismanagement: A recurring theme in fan discussions is SM Entertainment‘s perceived slowness, lack of project management skills, and general incompetence. The company’s apparent reluctance to invest in solo activities, even for highly popular members, is a major point of contention. The lack of a 7Dream fan meeting in Korea is cited as a prime example of this mismanagement.
Some argue that SM might be prioritizing the group’s success as a whole, believing that Dream generates more profit as a unit, especially through touring. Solo activities require investment, and SM might be hesitant to allocate resources to them.
Looking Ahead: Hope for the Future?
Despite the frustrations, some fans remain hopeful. They point to occasional magazine shoots, Jisung’s birthday party, and Chenle’s OST as signs that SM might be slowly opening up to the idea of solo activities for Dream. However, until more concrete plans are announced and implemented, the uncertainty surrounding Dream’s solo potential will likely continue to fuel fan discussions and concerns. The hope is that SM Entertainment will recognize the immense potential of each Dream member and provide them with the opportunities they deserve to showcase their individual talents and grow as artists.
What are your thoughts on NCT Dream’s lack of solo activities? Let us know in the comment section below!
