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EXO’s Xiumin and WJSN’s Exy To Star in ‘Restaurant Heo’

Mark your calendars, K-drama fans! K-pop idols  Xiumin and Exy will be headlining a new drama! 

Xiumin from boy group EXO and Exy from girl group WJSN are confirmed to star as the main characters in the upcoming fantasy romantic-comedy series Restaurant Heo.

According to the drama’s production crew, Restaurant Heo will be based on the web novel of the same title. The story will revolve around Heo Gyun (to be played by Xiumin), a problematic figure from the Joseon Dynasty. He will time travel 400 years into the present time and accidentally starts a restaurant.

On the other hand, Exy will take on the role of Eun Sil, a realist daughter of a restaurant owner who believes a home-cooked meal business will not make enough money. With Heo Gyun appearing in front of the restaurant out of nowhere, Heo Gyun and Eun Sil’s messy relationship begins.

Also part of the series are actors Lee Sae On and Lee Soo Min. Moreover, both Sae On and Soo Min will be taking on dual roles with different characters set in the past and the present.

According to reports, Restaurant Heo is scheduled to air in the latter half of 2024. As of writing, a final release date has yet to be announced. 

More about Xiumin and Exy’s acting ventures

While Xiumin and Exy have established their singing careers in their respective groups, they continue to make names for themselves in the acting industry as well.

To note, Xiumin made his musical theater debut in SM Entertainment’s 2015 musical Wizard of Oz, where he starred alongside his fellow SM artists. In that same year, he also starred in his first ever drama, Falling for Challenge.

In 2016, the EXO member made his big screen debut with the film Seondal. After an acting hiatus of about seven years, Xiumin made his anticipated return last 2023 with the drama Boss-dol Mart.

As for Exy, her acting career began in the 2021 drama Idol: The Coup. After receiving praise for her skills as a rookie actress, she continued to take on a number of dramas and films. Aside from Restaurant Heo, Exy will also star in the 2024 film 18 Youth, where she will be acting alongside Weki Meki’s Doyeon and actress Jeon So Min. 

Are you excited to see Xiumin and Exy in the upcoming drama, too? 

Featured image: EXO’s Xiumin and WJSN’s Exy in promotional photos. Credit: Xiumin and WJSN’s Twitter

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Baekhyun, Chen, and Xiumin of EXO to Manage Solo, Unit Activities Under I&B100

Baekhyun, Chen and Xiumin of the K-pop boy group EXO announced on Monday, January 8, their decision to manage their solo activities under I&B100, Baekhyun’s independent label.

Also known as the sub-unit CBX, the trio are set to introduce the members’ individual activities under I&B100. Moreover, they will also be more active with unit activities now that they’re in a separate label.  

In the group’s press release, I&B100 also revealed their plans to revive the members’ musical personalities. As the trio are already entering their 13th year in the industry, the agency shared that the EXO members have been pondering more about their future career plans. 

With this, the move will serve as a starting point for Baekhyun, Chen and Xiumin to experiment and participate more in the artistic process of doing music, including writing and producing songs. According to the agency, it’s the members’ “longtime dreams” to do so. 

“The start of this label is based on long-standing deliberation and aspirations of the members,” IB&100 added.

To note, I&B100 is an agency Baekhyun established himself in June 2023. With Chen and Xiumin also signing under the label, fans are anticipating to see more of CBX activities this year.

After the announcement, Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin have now opened their individual social media accounts. Additionally, the agency also posted their first series of solo photos. 

EXO to continue future activities with SM Entertainment

Although the three members are now set to handle their own activities, Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin reassured fans that they will continue their group activities with EXO. 

Through a social media post, SM Entertainment commented about the direction of the K-pop boy group.  “Going forward, all eight members of EXO will continue activities together as EXO,” they said. 

Aside from showcasing new music and performances, the label also teased that the group has plans to stage a fan meeting in April. 

According to SM Entertainment, the exclusive contracts of Chen, Baekhyun and Xiumin are still valid with the agreement to allow them to independently conduct personal activities. To recall, CBX previously filed a lawsuit against the label in June 2023. But both parties reached a settlement after a few weeks.

Aside from CBX, member D.O. (Do Kyungsoo) has also parted ways with the agency in  October 2023. Since then, he has pursued activities under Company SooSoo. However, SM Entertainment shared that the That’s Okaysinger has agreed to participate in EXO’s activities and is currently in ongoing discussions about their future schedules.

EXO plans to communicate with fans through good music and stages. So we ask for your interest and support in the members’ activities,” SM Entertainment

EXO, which debuted in 2012, released their seventh full-length album Exist in July 2023. 

Featured image: I&B100 releases new profile photos of EXO’s Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin. Credit: Instagram/I&B100

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EXO’s Xiumin, SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan Show Support for Enlistment of MONSTA X’s Hyungwon

Hyungwon of K-pop group MONSTA X  has officially embarked on his military service on Tuesday, November 14.  And several of his friends in the industry,  including EXO’s Xiumin and SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan, showed their support for him. 

Prior to his enlistment, Hyungwon has been updating his fans about his preparation. For instance, he revealed that it was co-member Shownu who shaved his head. Moreover, he also shared photos of him sporting his new buzz cut on his Instagram, jesting that his hair now dries in only three seconds. 

On the day of his enlistment, the idol was sent off by fellow MONSTA X member Shownu and I.M, alongside Hyungwon’s CEO-dol Mart co-stars EXO’s Xiumin, Choi Won Myeong, and Lee Sae On. 

Meanwhile, SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan, who was in Paris at the time, also sent his well wishes for Hyungwon’s enlistment. During a Weverse live show, he revealed that he asked the MONSTA X member to send him a photo of him in his new haircut. Initially, Hyungwon sent Jeonghan a photo that he already uploaded on his Instagram. But Jeonghan requested a new set of photos, leading him to use one of them as his wallpaper. 

These interactions delighted fans a lot as it reflects the close friendship that Hyungwon has with other idols. Notably, both EXO’s Xiumin and SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan have also appeared in the web variety series Mr. Chae the Castaway sas guests. 

Hyungwon begins his military service

After completing his basic training, the MONSTA X member will serve as an active duty soldier. 

In a series of posts, Hyungwon sent several messages to his fans, expressing his commitment to complete military service in good health. “As always, I’ll work hard and stay healthy. I’ll do well and when I return, I’ll be strong and reliable enough to block the wind easily. Let’s greet each other warmly when that time comes,” he said. 

On the idol’s behalf, agency Starship Entertainment also left a message for fans of MONSTA X: “Please look forward to the cool return of MONSTA X [as a group] when I come back.” In the statement, Hyungwon also promised that he will show a “more mature side” of him once all members of MONSTA X gathered again. 

Notably, Hyungwon is the fifth member of MONSTA X to enlist, following Shownu, Minhyuk, Joohoney, and Kihyun. Only their youngest member, I.M has yet to enlist in the military. 

Featured image: MONSTA X members and CEO-dol Mart co-stars show support for Hyungwon’s enlistment. Credit: Twitter/MONSTA X

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EXO’s Xiumin And MONSTA X’s Hyungwon Star In ‘CEO-Dol Mart’ Teaser

TVING has unveiled an exclusive sneak peek of its highly-anticipated drama “CEO-dol Mart” starring EXO’s Xiumin and MONSTA X’s Hyungwon. The captivating series delves into the unexpected journey of Thunder Boys, an idol group whose dreams are shattered when an unforeseen incident compels them to disband abruptly. Stripped of their aspirations and careers in the blink of an eye, the members of Thunder Boys find themselves in an unlikely role—co-owners of a struggling supermarket.

TVING Shares First ‘CEO-Dol Mart’ Featuring EXO’s Xiumin and MONSTA X’s Hyungwon

The drama’s latest teaser transports viewers back to Thunder Boys’ humble beginnings during their rookie days, as a music show MC excitedly introduces the fresh-faced group. Fast forward five years, and Thunder Boys’ leader Choi Ho Rang (Lee Shin Young) receives an astonishing revelation from a police officer. He is now the proprietor of a supermarket known as “Boram Mart.” What’s more, his supermarket partners are none other than his former bandmates. This includes Shin Tae Ho (EXO’s Xiumin), Jo Yi Joon (MONSTA X’s Hyungwon), Eun Young Min (Choi Won Myeong), and Yoon Sang Woo (Lee Sae On).

Amidst the bewildering situation, each member responds to their names in unison, confirming their ownership. When the perplexed police officer questions their identities, Shin Tae Ho and Choi Ho Rang exchange glances before proudly declaring, “Thunder Boys.”

“CEO-dol Mart” promises to deliver a heartwarming and humorous tale of resilience and camaraderie as these former idols navigate the challenges of running a supermarket together.

TVING had previously released the poster for “CEO-Dol Mart”. Alongside the Thunder Boys, the poster also features the experienced part-timer Oh Ye Rim (played by Choi Jung Woon). As they navigate this new venture, the Thunder Boys members will also uncover their hidden talents while working at the supermarket, adding depth and excitement to the series. “CEO-dol Mart” is set to be a must-watch drama filled with unexpected twists and heartwarming moments.

“CEO-dol Mart” has not yet been given an official release date. However, the new supermarket drama is set to premiere on TVING.

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EXO’s Xiumin, MONSTA X’s Hyungwon Join New Supermarket Drama

Get ready to dive into the excitement of the upcoming supermarket drama “CEO-dol Mart” (working title), which promises an intriguing storyline and a talented ensemble cast. The upcoming supermarket drama will feature EXO’s Xiumin and MONSTA X’s Hyungwon!

New Supermarket Drama ‘CEO-dol Mart’ Drops First Poster

On the 5th of September, “CEO-dol Mart” unveiled an eye-catching group poster, featuring the lead actors, including Lee Shin Young, EXO’s Xiumin, MONSTA X’s Hyungwon, Choi Jung Woon, Choi Won Myeong, and Lee Sae On.

The series unfolds the captivating narrative that follows the aftermath of Thunder Boys, an idol group, disbanding due to an unexpected incident. These former idols embark on an unexpected journey as they take over the reins of a struggling supermarket.

The newly released poster introduces the five Thunder Boys members: the leader Choi Ho Rang (played by Lee Shin Young), the main dancer Shin Tae Ho (portrayed by Xiumin), the rapper Jo Yi Joon (brought to life by Hyungwon), the vocalist Eun Young Min (played by Choi Won Myeong), and the charismatic youngest member Yoon Sang Woo (portrayed by Lee Sae On). Despite reaching the pinnacle of their careers, they are forced to disband abruptly due to an unforeseen accident. Five years later, they discover the astonishing truth that, on paper, they are the owners of a supermarket.

This captivating storyline follows the journey of these former idols as they transition from living aimlessly to becoming supermarket owners, igniting a remarkable adventure. Alongside the Thunder Boys, the poster also features the experienced part-timer Oh Ye Rim (played by Choi Jung Woon), who brings her wealth of supermarket experience to the table, showcasing remarkable leadership skills. As they navigate this new venture, the Thunder Boys members will also uncover their hidden talents while working at the supermarket, adding depth and excitement to the series. “CEO-dol Mart” is set to be a must-watch drama filled with unexpected twists and heartwarming moments.

“CEO-dol Mart” has not yet been given an official release date. However, the new supermarket drama is set to premiere on TVING.

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EXO-CBX Members Reach Agreement With SM Entertainment

The ongoing legal battle is finally over. EXO-CBX members Xiumin, Baekhyun, and Chen have come to an agreement with SM Entertainment. The members of EXO also issued a joint statement with their agency.

EXO-CBX Members and SM Entertainment Issue Joint Statement

SM Entertainment released a joint statement with the three EXO-CBX members. It confirms that the agency and the idols have resolved their differences and agreed to continue forward as EXO with their contracts.

“Recently, the agency and the agency’s artists continued to publicly raise issues with our different stances. Regarding this, the agency and the three artists sincerely apologize for causing concern to the many people who support EXO,” the statement read.

“Afterwards, the agency and three artists had ample time in which we candidly discussed all the issues,” it continued. “Through this, we resolved the differences caused by misunderstandings, and we are pleased to inform you that we have reached a mutually amicable agreement.”

In the statement, it was confirmed that the EXO-CBX members have discussed the contracts thoroughly with the agency. Moreover, they “will carry out a process of mutually equal discussion as well as corrections” and “promised to strengthen our future relationship further.”

SM Apologizes For Third Party Involvement Claims

SM Entertainment also addressed the “third party” misunderstanding.

“The agency initially received a tip-off that a third party was approaching the three artists with unjust intention, and we stated that this was the main cause of the dispute,” the statement read.

“However, through this discussion, we learned that there was a misunderstanding about the involvement of a third party,” it continued. “We would like to take this opportunity to apologize to those involved for causing concern with our announcement.”

Finally, SM Entertainment stated that the incident gave them the chance to “think about the personal concerns of artists.” They also confirmed it would influence “the direction of our agency’s growth following the launch of SM 3.0.”

“Thanks to fans’ support, we would like to plan the future of SM 3.0 that is more developed and mature,” the statement added. “Under the changed and developed new values of SM 3.0, we will further strengthen and solidify mutual cooperation and respect with our artists.”

Earlier this month, Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen notified SM Entertainment regarding the termination of their exclusive contracts. The agency responded by claiming that a third party influenced the termination. Since then, both parties have issued statements responding to each other through the EXO-CBX members’ legal representative.

EXO will release their seventh full album EXIST on July 10, 2023.

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EXO’s Baekhyun, Xiumin and Chen Demand SM’s Settlement Reports

Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen continue to face off against SM Entertainment. The EXO members are now demanding that the agency fulfill their promise to provide settlement reports.

EXO Members Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin Still Waiting For Settlement Reports From SM Entertainment

On June 5,  the EXO-CBX members‘ legal representative announced that they have filed a complaint to the Fair Trade Commission. The complaint is against SM Entertainment for “abuse of superior bargaining position.”

SM Entertainment soon responded with a statement on their decision.

We have decided to provide copies of the settlement reports with the consent and understanding of EXO members on the premise that the three artists and legal representative do not use them for unjust purposes,” it read. The agency also stated that they “will do our best to not interfere with EXO’s activities.”

Chen, Baekyun, and Xiumin have since confirmed that they are still waiting for the reports. A new statement revealed that SM Entertainment has failed to provide the settlement reports.

“Today (June 5) at 8 a.m. (KST), SM shared a press release stating that they will provide copies of settlement reports, and in accordance, our legal representative shared the artists’ signed copy of a confidentiality agreement to SM,” the new statement read.

“However, even by the current time of 6 p.m. (KST) today when work hours are over, SM has not provided any settlement reports stating ‘the settlement reports are not ready yet’,” it continued.

For now, SM Entertainment has not yet responded to the EXO-CBX members‘ latest statement. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

On June 1, Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen notified SM Entertainment regarding the termination of their exclusive contracts. The agency responded by claiming that a third party influenced the termination. Since then, both parties have issued statements responding to each other through the EXO-CBX members’ legal representative.

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EXO’s Xiumin, Baekhyun and Chen Respond to SM’s Statement

Xiumin, Baekhyun, and Chen continue to fight back against SM Entertainment. The EXO members issued a new statement regarding the decision to terminate their exclusive contracts. Their legal representative responded to SM’s claims that a third party influenced the termination.

Xiumin, Baekyun, and Chen Issue New Statement In Response to SM Entertainment

Lee Jae Hak of the law firm LIN is the lawyer representing Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen. They issued a statement on behalf of Byun Baek Hyun, Kim Min Seok, and Kim Jong Dae in response to SM Entertainment’s recent claims.

The statement addresses five points starting with SM Entertainment’s “claim of an external influence’s intervention.”

“Our artists are definitely adults who can think for themselves and take responsibility for their own decisions, and they are individuals with independent thoughts and judgments,” it read.

“They have felt some doubts for a decade, and they mustered up fearful and difficult courage with the thought that the questions they couldn’t dare bring up as rookies should at least be brought up now.”

“Our artists asked and listened to many people around them about what is right and what they need to do to find wise solutions. Of those people around them, there are family and acquaintances, seniors and juniors of the music industry, colleagues, and even staff who have worked together with the artists.”

The statement also addresses SM Entertainment’s claims that Xiumin, Baekhyun, and Chen tried to sign contracts with other companies.

“SM is claiming that our artists have signed or attempted to sign dual contracts, but the three individuals Baekhyun, Chen, and Xiumin have not signed or attempted to sign other exclusive contracts besides their current exclusive contracts signed with SM. SM must refrain from making false claims,” it read.

Xiumin, Baekhyun, and Chen Criticize SM For Mishandling Contract Termination

The statement continued by criticizing the way SM Entertainment had handled the situation.

“SM not even providing settlement data, and their legal representative and other celebrities advising them about the injustice of this situation. This inevitably raises the question of who should be criticizing the wrongdoing of who in this situation.”

“We would like to state again that the essence and truth of this case is that the artists and their legal representative have consistently requested the provision of settlement data, but SM eventually refused, which has led to contract termination.”

In the end, the statement confirms that Byun Baek Hyun, Kim Min Seok, and Kim Jong Dae plan to continue EXO group activities. The singers have proposed ideas on how they can keep promoting with EXO after leaving SM Entertainment.

On June 1, Xiumin, Baekhyun, and Chen notified SM Entertainment regarding the termination of their exclusive contracts. The statement was delivered by their legal representative. SM has since refuted the EXO members’ basis for contract termination.

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