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| Winwin Updates Weibo Profile Following SM Entertainment Exit and Fans Notice One Big Change. (Photo: Weibo) |
Dong Sicheng Winwin has quietly marked the beginning of a new chapter, and fans wasted no time spotting the change. Just days after confirming the end of his decade-long journey with SM Entertainment, the Chinese singer and actor updated his official Weibo account, removing WayV from his username. It may look like a small edit on a profile page, but for many followers, it signals something much bigger—a fresh start built on his own name while still holding onto the stage identity that made him a familiar face across the global music scene.
On 11 July 2026, the account previously known as "WayV_Dong Sicheng_WINWIN" officially became "Dong Sicheng WINWIN." The update immediately caught the attention of fans, who noticed that while the group name had disappeared, Winwin deliberately kept his stage name intact.
That subtle decision has been widely interpreted as a respectful nod to the career that shaped him, rather than an attempt to erase it. Sometimes changing a username says more than a lengthy press conference ever could.
The changes did not stop there. Winwin also refreshed the verification details on his Weibo profile. Instead of identifying himself through his former management company, his account now simply lists him as an actor and singer, reflecting his independent status following the conclusion of his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment.
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The revised profile presents a clearer picture of where his career is heading, with acting and music standing side by side rather than under one agency's banner.
The profile update follows the heartfelt letter Winwin shared with supporters on 9 July, shortly after announcing his departure from the company. Looking back on ten years that took him from trainee to member of NCT 127 and later WayV, he described the experience as one of the most meaningful chapters of his life.
"I've been fortunate to meet so many wonderful people from my trainee days until my debut," Winwin wrote. "Every stage, every performance and every memory with NCT and WayV has become something I will always treasure."
He also expressed sincere gratitude towards SM Entertainment, acknowledging the opportunities that helped shape his career. "Thank you for giving me the chance to debut, stand on stages around the world and meet fans from different countries. Without those experiences, I wouldn't be the person I am today."
Rather than presenting his departure as a dramatic split, Winwin emphasised that both sides reached the decision through careful conversations and mutual understanding.
"After many discussions and thoughtful consideration, we agreed to end our contract on good terms," he explained. It was a measured statement that reflected appreciation rather than bitterness, something fans were quick to recognise.
Looking ahead, Winwin revealed that he hopes to balance his acting career with future performances on stage while continuing to challenge himself creatively.
"I want to keep growing, keep creating new work and become a better artist," he wrote. "Whether I'm acting or performing, I hope I can continue showing improved versions of myself."
His closing words carried the emotional weight many supporters had expected. "Thank you to everyone who has stood beside me over these ten years. The memories we've created together will always stay with me. I hope you'll continue walking this journey with me as I keep learning and growing."
Fan reactions have been mixed, though overwhelmingly supportive. Many described the Weibo update as the symbolic closing of one era and the beginning of another. Others admitted they felt emotional seeing WayV disappear from his username, saying it made his departure finally feel real.
Some praised him for keeping WINWIN as his stage name, calling it a respectful way of honouring both his past and future.
Naturally, there were also a few fans joking that changing a username should not have the power to make thousands of people unexpectedly sentimental—but somehow, here everyone is.
Others have begun speculating about what comes next, particularly with Winwin's growing acting portfolio in China and the possibility of more independent music activities.
Many believe his updated profile as an actor and singer reflects exactly where he intends to focus next, while others simply hope it means they'll see more of him on screen without completely leaving music behind.
For now, one simple profile edit has become one of the most talked-about moments among fans. Winwin has made it clear that while one chapter has closed, his journey is far from over. Whether his next move comes through a television drama, a new song or another surprise announcement, supporters will be watching closely.
What do you think of Winwin's Weibo update? Was removing WayV from his username the right way to mark a fresh start, or does it make the end of an era hit even harder?