Tag: EXO

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EXO’s D.O.’s New Agency Confirms Legal Action For Malicious Posts

D.O. poses in the teaser of EXO's 'Cream Soda' music video. Credit: Facebook/EXO

D.O. has found a new agency and they are immediately taking action to protect their artists. Company Soosoo has issued a statement confirming they are taking legal action against malicious posts about the EXO member and their other affiliated artists.

D.O.’s New Agency Announces Intentions to Take Legal Action Against Malicious Posts

On November 6, Company Soosoo issued a statement about their plans.

“In order to protect the honor of our affiliated artists, we plan to take regular legal action against the creators of malicious posts and comments containing baseless accusations, defamation, and malicious insults on online communities and social media,” the statement read.

“We will collect relevant information through our internal monitoring system, and we would be grateful if fans could also report malicious posts and comments when they come across them. Please report any such content to our dedicated email account at clean@companysoosoo.com,” it continues.

“We will continue our ongoing efforts to safeguard our artists’ rights and vigorously respond to illegal activities, including the spread of false information and malicious rumors,” the statement concludes.

On October 18, SM Entertainment also confirmed that D.O. would be leaving the agency. He would then join a new agency founded by SM’s former manager. SM Entertainment further clarified that D.O. will continue his EXO activities with SM while also carrying out acting and individual activities through Company Soosoo.

“D.O.’s exclusive contract with us will expire in early November,” the statement read. “Following thorough discussions with D.O., it has been decided that he will continue his EXO activities with SM, but will also proceed with his acting and individual activities through the newly established agency founded by his and SM’s former manager.”

D.O.’s latest project is the variety show “You Reap What You Sow” which also stars Lee Kwang Soo, Kim Woo Bin, and Kim Ki Bang. In the series, the four friends are seen navigating the challenges of farm life on a vast 500-pyeong (about 17,792 square feet) field.

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Former EXO Member Kris Wu Reportedly Writing Songs in Prison

It looks like Kris Wu is staying active musically amidst his current incarceration. A panelist on a Chinese television program has sparked controversy by claiming that the former EXO member is composing music and participating in talent competitions while in prison.

Kris Wu’s Alleged Prison Activities Revealed

The update regarding Kris Wu’s activities came to light through screen captures from the television show that were shared on Twitter. According to the post, the former EXO member “is writing songs with positive vibes and participating in prison talent shows.”

Kris Wu’s legal issues began when a 19-year-old Chinese college student made allegations against him on July 8, 2021. The student accused Wu of engaging in a pattern of sexual assault involving multiple women and girls, some of whom were underage, while they were unconscious and under the influence of alcohol. According to the victim, she was sexually assaulted while intoxicated in December 2020 when she was 18 and claimed to speak on behalf of at least seven other victims. Two of the victims were reportedly minors at the time of the alleged crimes.

The Fall of Kris Wu

Wu vehemently denied the allegations, leading to investigations by the Beijing Public Security Bureau and other authorities. The scandal resulted in various companies, including Porsche, Bulgari, and Lancôme, severing ties with the artist. They either dropped him as a brand ambassador or suspended existing endorsement deals.

Wu was subsequently detained by police in July 2021 and was formally arrested the following month. The legal proceedings surrounding the case continued, ultimately resulting in a verdict. On November 25, 2022, the Chaoyang District People’s Court in Beijing sentenced Kris Wu to a total of 13 years in prison, with additional deportation from China upon completing his sentence. He faced charges related to rape and group lewdness and was also fined ¥600 million yuan (approximately US$84 million) for tax evasion.

The recent television program’s claim about Kris Wu’s involvement in music and talent competitions during his incarceration has stirred public debate and raised questions about the accuracy of the information. It remains to be seen how this situation will develop and whether further details about Kris Wu’s activities will emerge.

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Fans Outraged at SM Entertainment’s Treatment for 2024 Season’s Greetings of EXO

EXO members pose for their album 'EXIST.' Credit: Facebook/EXO

Fans of K-pop boy group EXO were sent abuzz with disappointment as they discovered that the group was conspicuously absent from the lineup of the highly-anticipated 2024 SM Entertainment Season’s Greetings. 

On Wednesday, October 25, Kwangya released the promotional poster for their Season’s Greetings. In it are a multitude of SM Entertainment’s artists, including beloved acts like TVXQ, Super Junior, Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, aespa and even the rookie boy group RIIZE.

Among the groups under SM Entertainment, three were noticeably absent: Girls’ Generation, SHINee, and EXO. However, both Girls’ Generation and SHINee were quick to explain that the Season’s Greetings for their groups will have pre-orders by November. Furthermore, they explained that the two groups had a different schedule compared to other SM Entertainment artists given their prior schedule. 

Meanwhile, EXO didn’t release a statement about their Season’s Greetings until Friday, October 27. Similar to Girl’s Generation and SHINee, theirs will also have a separate schedule. Other details about pre-order for EXO’s Seasons Greetings will be announced through a separate notice at a later date.

Although SM Entertainment has finally confirmed that EXO is still releasing a Season’s Greetings for 2024, fans are still unhappy as to why it took several days before they released an explanation about the delay. The omission already left fans puzzled and anxious about the group’s future activities with the agency. 

On social media, fans lamented as to how the agency failed to properly promote EXO, especially in light of recent contract disputes and member departures from the group.

EXO vs SM Entertainment in 2023

Notably, thi puzzling exclusion comes at a time when EXO has been navigating a series of ups and downs with their agency SM Entertainment. 

In June, fans were taken aback when it was revealed that three EXO members, Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen, had issued contract termination notices to SM Entertainment. The EXO-CBX sub-united 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. 

Then in October, new reports emerged that two more members,  Chanyeol and Sehun, were potentially transferring to another agency to pursue solo careers. But SM Entertainment swiftly denied these rumors, emphasizing that the contract signed by the members last year remains valid. 

Shortly after, SM Entertainment also confirmed that D.O. would continue his solo activities under a newly established label. Additionally, he will simultaneously maintain his connection with SM Entertainment for EXO activities.

Amidst these developments, leader Suho assured fans that EXO will continue as a full group. 

Featured image: EXO members pose for their album ‘EXIST.’ Credit: Facebook/EXO

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Photos From Wedding of EXO Chen Go Viral on Social Media

Chen poses for EXO's 'Exist' album. Credit: Facebook/EXO

EXO member Chen officially tied the knot with his non-showbiz partner in a private ceremony on October 22, and the momentous event quickly created a buzz of excitement and nostalgia among fans. 

Chen, whose real name is Kim Jong-dae, first made public his relationship in January 2020. In a handwritten letter, the idol told his fans that he has a girlfriend that he “wants to spend the rest of his [life] with.” At the time, he also announced that they’re also expecting their first child. In April 2020, it was confirmed that Chen’s partner had given birth to their first child. 

Then in January 2022, it was confirmed that the couple welcomed their second daughter while the idol was in the military.

Chen and his wife’s official wedding 

In August, SM Entertainment announced that Chen and his partner will be holding a belated wedding ceremony in October. According to the agency, the wedding ceremony  has been delayed due to circumstances, such as Chen’s military enlistment and his wife’s childbirth. 

Details about the wedding ceremony were intentionally kept private out of respect for Chen’s non-celebrity wife. Nevertheless, numerous attendees shared glimpses of the occasion, giving fans a peek into the joyful celebration.

In the photos circulating on social media, the couple’s radiant happiness on their big day is evident. Chen looked dapper in a white shirt paired with a matching jacket, black bow tie, and trousers. Meanwhile, his bride looked absolutely elegant in a maroon dress. Additionally, the venue was adorned with pure white flowers, creating a magical atmosphere that symbolized the purity of their love.

 

One heartwarming aspect of the wedding ceremony was the presence of  all EXO group members. Even Kai who’s currently serving in the military was reported to be in attendance. Some videos also saw EXO members participating in the ceremony, with Baekhyun and Xiumin as the hosts, while Suho performs a special song. Notably, Chen was also captured to serenade his wife. 

 

Given that the news about Chen’s relationship drew mixed reaction from fans, others who are supportive about the idol’s personal affairs are delighted to see EXO’s reunion in the event. For them, it’s a testament of the strong bond among the members.

Featured image: Chen poses for EXO’s ‘Exist’ album. Credit: Facebook/EXO

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Suho Reassures Fans That EXO Will Continue as a Group

Suho poses for EXO's 'Cream Soda' music video. Credit: Facebook/EXO

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. 

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

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EXO’s Chen Sparks Controversy by Playing Fan Songs at Wedding

EXO member Chen finally held a late wedding ceremony after three years of marriage. However, the joyous event was also marred by a bit of controversy. It has been revealed that Chen played EXO fan songs during the wedding ceremony and although this should have been a great celebration, people had strong reactions to the news.

Chen Plays EXO Fan Songs At Late Wedding Ceremony

Korean netizens have been expressing their thoughts and concerns regarding the choice of music at Chen’s wedding ceremony, which involved the use of EXO’s song “Don’t Go” in a live string performance.

Interestingly, the choice was viewed as a controversial one by fans. The song “Don’t Go” has a significant history as it was originally created in 2013 as one of the “fan songs” to symbolize the growing bond between EXO and their devoted fanbase, known as EXO-Ls.

The use of this particular song, which has the Korean title “Butterfly Girl,” has sparked discussions and debates online, making it one of the most trending topics on X (formerly Twitter) in Korea. Fans and netizens have raised questions about the appropriateness of using a song with such a distinct connection to the group’s fan community at a personal event like a wedding.

Additionally, some fans have highlighted Xiumin’s past statements emphasizing the importance of “Don’t Go” in fostering a unique connection between EXO and their fans. This has further fueled the discussion surrounding the fan songs’ use at Chen’s wedding ceremony.

Despite these discussions, it’s worth noting that all members of EXO came together to celebrate Chen’s wedding. They were seen in attendance at the event, even including Kai, who is currently fulfilling his military service in the public service department. The unity among the EXO members during such a significant event reinforces their strong bond and support for one another.

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Oscar Nominee Mitski Admits Being Obsessed with Iconic EXO Song

Mitski might be an Oscar nominee but she’s just like any other K-pop fan! The American singer-songwriter has repeatedly expressed her admiration for an iconic EXO song. In fact, the “Your Best American Girl” singer even admitted that she listens to the track on repeat!

Oscar Nominee Confirms ‘Obsession’ For an Iconic EXO Song

In a recently-resurfaced interview with TIDAL, Mitski was asked if there is a pop song that she has been deconstructing as of late. Interestingly, the “Nobody” singer revealed that her choice is an iconic EXO song.

“There’s a K-Pop song called ‘Call Me Baby’ by this band… I don’t know what you would call a K-Pop… group… by this group called EXO,” Mitski said.

She went on to say that, “the chord progressions in that are fascinating.”

This isn’t the first time that the songwriter expressed her admiration for “Call Me Baby”. In another interview, Mitski said that she was listening to the iconic EXO song on repeat at the time. She even pointed out that there is a good reason why the track is so catchy.

“One of Michael Jackson’s old producers produced it and it makes sense because it’s so Motown pop-y,” Mitski said.

It’s awesome to know that Mitski couldn’t stop listening to “Call Me Baby” for a time. But is it possible that she has moved on to another song for a change? For now, there are no updates on Mitski’s playlist but we’ll keep you updated soon.

Mitski debuted in 2012 with the self-produced album ‘Lush’. She would later work on the song “This is the Life” with the legendary David Byrne and the band Son Lux who produced the soundtrack for “Everything Everywhere All at Once”. The song would go on to be nominated for Best Original Song at the 2022 Academy Awards but lost out to “Naatu Naatu” by M. M. Keeravani and Chandrabose featuring Rahul Sipligunj and Kaala Bhairava from the “RRR” soundtrack.

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SM Entertainment Addresses EXO D.O. Signing With New Agency

It’s official: D.O. is leaving SM Entertainment. Several reports suggested that the EXO member will be leaving the company to join a new agency with a longtime friend. Now, SM Entertainment has addressed the news to assure fans about the idol’s future.

According to several reports, D.O. is currently extending his activities by joining a new agency, which was founded by a long-time management director who has been with him since his debut. Notably, D.O. and the management director share a close bond well-known among EXO fans. Do Kyungsoo reportedly mentioned the manager in various award acceptance speeches and interviews, and consults with the manager regarding his career decisions.

Despite the reported move to a new agency, it is anticipated that D.O. will maintain his role as an EXO member while pursuing new opportunities within the framework of the new company.

SM Entertainment Confirms EXO D.O.’s New Agency

Since then, SM Entertainment has addressed the report, confirming D.O.’s status in a statement.

“D.O.’s exclusive contract with us will expire in early November,” the statement read. “Following thorough discussions with D.O., it has been decided that he will continue his EXO activities with SM, but will proceed with his acting and individual activities through the newly established agency founded by his and SM’s former manager.”

The news of D.O.’s departure comes shortly after it was reported that EXO members Chanyeol and Sehun will sign with a new agency. SM Entertainment refuted the reports but also indicated that the members can pursue individual activities with other companies.

“It is not true that Chanyeol and Sehun have moved to a new agency,” the statement read. “The contracts that EXO members signed with SM Entertainment at the end of last year remain valid, and EXO activities will continue to proceed under SM Entertainment.”

SM Entertainment continued, “However, in regards to the members’ individual activities, we have conditionally allowed them to proceed through their own established companies if they wish, within the terms of their existing exclusive contracts with SM.”

EXO released their seventh studio album ‘EXIST’ on July 10, 2023.

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SM Entertainment Denies That EXO’s Sehun and Chanyeol Moved to Another Agency

EXO-SC performs at the Waterbomb event in Japan. Credit: Facebook/EXO

SM Entertainment has refuted reports that EXO members Sehun and Chanyeol have signed with a different agency for their solo activities. 

On Tuesday, October 17, South Korean news outlet SBS reported that Sehun and Chanyeol, who’s also known as sub-unit EXO-SC, have signed with a different label to pursue more individual activities. 

According to the report, the unnamed agency was founded by Jung Hoon Tak, the former CEO of the entertainment agency iHQ. Furthermore, it also claimed that Sehun and Chanyeol will still continue their group activities with EXO under SM Entertainment. 

In response, the label announced that Sehun and Chanyeol transferred to another agency. “The contracts that EXO members signed with SM Entertainment at the end of last year remain valid,” the agency added. 

However, the label noted that they have reached a conditional agreement with the EXO members in terms of their plans of pursuing solo activities. Which, they explained, is only possible if the idol “proceed through their own established companies if they wish.” 

As of writing, Sehun and Chanyeol have yet to address the issue. 

EXO and SM Entertainment in 2023

The news about Sehun and Chanyeol’s status as an artist of SM Entertainment came four months after their fellow EXO members Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen also had a dispute with the agency. 

In June, the EXO-CBX sub-unit filed to terminate their contracts with the agency over alleged “mistreatment and unfair contract terms.” The EXO-CBX sub-unit cited unclear handling of earnings and slave contracts as their motivation. 

At the time, SM Entertainment had refuted claims made by the three EXO members. After a three-week legal battle, it was announced that both parties have reached a settlement. 

In July, EXO released their seventh full-length album EXIST. To note, it served as EXO’s first album as a full-group in two years.

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.” 

Featured image: EXO-SC performs at the Waterbomb event in Japan. Credit: Facebook/EXO

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Look: EXO’s Chanyeol Drops Teaser for ‘Good Enough’

EXO releases the first teaser of Chanyeol's digital single 'Good Enough.' Credit: Twitter/EXO

The long wait is almost over, EXO-Ls! Chanyeol of K-pop group EXO has been confirmed to return with new solo music. 

On Monday, October 16, SM Entertainment announced that the rapper will be releasing the digital single “Good Enough” on October 20. 

In the first teaser released, Chanyeol is seen playing a Jenga game. But the overall aesthetic of the teaser appears to be more retro-themed. 

According to a Naver report, “Good Enough” is a synth-pop song with a rhythmic synthesizer line. It reportedly aims to give fans a sense of comfort as it will tackle the challenges everyone faces to achieve their dreams. 

Moreover, Chanyeol wrote the lyrics for “Good Enough.”

Following the news, fans have expressed their excitement for it as “Good Enough” will serve as Chanyeol’s first solo offering in two years and a half. He last released the single “Tomorrow” through SM STATION in April 2021.

Since then, he enlisted in the military and finished his service in September 2022. 

Look back on the career of Chanyeol 

Chanyeol made his debut as a member of EXO under SM Entertainment in 2012. In July, the group released their seventh full-length album EXIST in July. It served as EXO’s first album as a full-group in two years.

Together with member Sehun, Chanyeol formed the sub-unit EXO-SC in 2019. The duo is known for songs “What a Life,” “1 Billion Views,” and “Rodeo Station.” 

As a solo artist, he released his first single “Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter (SSFW)” in 2019. 

Outside of EXO, Chanyeol has also participated in various collaborations and singing of K-drama OSTs. For instance, he collaborated with Super Junior’s Yesung for “Confession,” Heize for “Don’t Make Me Money,” and Junggigo for “Let Me Love You.” 

In terms of OSTs, he recorded “Stay with Me” with Punch for the drama Goblin and “Go Away Go Away” with Punch again for Dr. Romantic 2. 

Given his wide range of releases, fans of Chanyeol are looking forward to his upcoming new music.

Featured image: EXO releases the first teaser of Chanyeol’s digital single ‘Good Enough.’ Credit: Twitter/EXO

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