NCT DREAM’s New Tour Announcement Stirs Worries Over Timing and Contract Termination
SM Entertainment recently announced that NCT DREAM would be embarking on a new tour reportedly The Dream Show 4 sometime this year. While details remain sparse, the news has stirred unease among fans, rather than the usual excitement.
This reaction is unusual given the group’s strong touring history. However, fans point to the timing: the previous tour, The Dream Show 3, concluded less than six months ago, and no new comeback has been released in the interim. While a comeback is rumored to be approaching, many feel the group deserves time to promote new music, explore individual schedules, or rest not rush back into another intense tour cycle.
The move has sparked speculation about SM Entertainment’s motivations, with theories ranging from financial pressure to strategic contract timing. As 2025 marks NCT DREAM’s 9th year since debuting in 2016, concerns are rising over the typical 7-year contract structure used widely in K-pop. With most contracts either expiring or renegotiated at the 7-year mark plus a standard 3-year extension some fans fear that one or more members may be planning to part ways with SM.
“Why are they being pushed into another tour without a comeback first?” one fan asked online. “It feels like SM is fast-tracking this before someone leaves.”
Others echoed worries that this could be a farewell tour in disguise, or that SM is prioritizing revenue over the group’s long-term development.
As of now, SM Entertainment has not addressed the speculation. NCT DREAM members themselves have hinted that the opening shows could begin this summer, but have yet to comment on the contract rumors.
Whether the announcement is simply a case of poor timing or a strategic move tied to contracts, fans are watching closely hoping for transparency, but preparing for potential change.
