Arts
Chicago’s Thanksgiving Parade Will Start Earlier This Year. Here’s What To Know
By Emily Tran
TEN Opens Up About Leaving SM Entertainment and Building His Solo Career
Elena Martinez
Elena Martinez
Reporter · Decatur, IL
Elena holds a Bachelor's in Arts Administration from Columbia College Chicago and has spent the last 4 years covering the vibrant arts scene in Central Illinois. She believes in the power of storytelling through the arts and frequently writes about local artists and cultural events.
More from Elena →Reporter · Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 7:26 AM · 1 min read
TEN is taking greater control of his music career after leaving SM Entertainment in April 2026 and establishing his own creative agency, ILLIMNT.
The Details
In a recent interview in Los Angeles, the Thailand-born singer explained that his decision came from wanting to explore personal ideas and take creative risks. He emphasized that the move was not driven by problems with his former company.
Known for his work with NCT, WayV, and SuperM, TEN continues to maintain ties with his group members, who supported his decision to pursue an independent path.
His latest chapter includes the English-language EP OUTWEST and his first solo headlining tour across the United States. The 14-city tour concluded in New York on November 10, following performances in Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, and other cities.
TEN also celebrated his tenth anniversary in entertainment with three concerts in Bangkok earlier this year.
Through ILLIMNT, he now takes a more active role in developing music, visual concepts, and fut
About This Story
Local news from Chicago Current
Coverage Area
Chicago, Illinois
Section
Arts
Published
Saturday, November 14, 2026
Reading Time
1 min
Up nextChicago’s Thanksgiving Parade Will Start Earlier This Year. Here’s What To KnowArts · 5 min read
