EXO fans around the world breathed a collective sigh of relief when leader Suho assured them that they will continue as a group. Notably, the short but sweet message came after a series of developments with the EXO members’ involvement with agency SM Entertainment.
In a private messaging app, the leader assured EXO-Ls that the group’s future activities would remain intact. “No need to worry about EXO promotions. Suho will take responsibility,” he said.
Don't worry about EXO's activities. SUHO is responsible ( in charge )
— SUHO 2023
— EXOPublicity (@EXOPublicity) October 18, 2023
always here to show us he's in charge and taking care of everything 🥺 pic.twitter.com/IfSSgOwB6D
— Dan (@rosesrkjm) October 18, 2023
Where are the EXO members?
The reassurance from Suho came in light of news regarding fellow EXO member D.O.‘s establishment of his own agency for solo activities.
According to several reports, D.O. will explore his solo endeavors through an agency established by a long-time manager. Moreover, SM Entertainment confirmed that D.O.’s contract with the agency will expire in early November. However, he will still continue activities with EXO, which will be handled by SM Entertainment.
Prior to D.O., there were also rumors circulating about Chanyeol and Sehun potentially transferring to another agency. But SM Entertainment swiftly denied these rumors, emphasizing that the contract signed by the members last year remains valid. However, it was then when the agency revealed that they “conditionally allowed” EXO members to pursue individual activities only through their own established companies.
Additionally, these recent developments in the EXO camp come after a dispute earlier in the year involving members Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen, who formed the EXO-CBX sub-unit. In June, EXO-CBX filed to terminate their contracts with SM Entertainment, citing alleged “mistreatment and unfair contract terms.” In response, SM Entertainment refuted these claims. After a three-week legal battle, both parties had reached a settlement.
Following the legal battle with EXO-CBX, it can be recalled that Baekhyun also aired his plans of setting up a new agency. As of writing, news about it has yet to be confirmed.
‘We are One’
Throughout this whole ordeal, the EXO members have emphasized their unyielding commitment to continue their journey together. And Suho’s recent message is just another proof of that.
Following his message, many EXO-Ls expressed their heartfelt admiration and gratitude for the EXO leader. Many fans commended him for his leadership andis unwavering dedication to EXO.
Originally a 12-piece act, EXO made their debut in April 2012. Chinese members Kris, Tao, and Luhan have left the group, while Lay left SM Entertainment in April 2022.
EXO is known for songs “Growl,” “Monster,” “Love Shot,” Overdose,” and “Tempo.” In July, EXO released their seventh full-length album EXIST.
Featured image: Suho poses for EXO’s ‘Cream Soda’ music video. Credit: Facebook/EXO