Tag: SM Entertainment

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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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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: aespa to Return With ‘Drama’ in November

aespa shares photo from filming 'Better Things.' Credit: Facebook/aespa

Save the date, MYs! K-pop girl group aespa is returning with new album titled Drama in November. 

On Wednesday, October 11, the quartet released the first teaser for their fourth mini-album Drama. 

In the 19-second “INTRO” teaser, the shot opened with the members walking on what appears to be an abandoned building. Then, the shot changed to a hand picking up a miniature car toy. 

According to the press release from SM Entertainment, Drama will include six songs encompassing a variety of genres. Notably, the title track will be of the same name as the album. 

Moreover, SM Entertainment teased fans that aespa will “showcase more mature vocal charms and musical colors” in the upcoming album. 

MYs’ excitement for ‘Drama’ 

Drama will serve as aespa’s comeback in five months. 

Previously, the quartet released their third EP My World in May, which carries the title track “Spicy.” Said album recorded over 1.37 million sales on the first day of its release and 1.69 million in the first week. Which made it the highest-selling K-pop girl group album in the first week of its release. 

Given this feat, SM Entertainment shared that the group is looking forward to setting a new record for their upcoming release. 

“With the overwhelming popularity of the prior album’s title track, ‘Spicy,’ we are excited to witness the fresh music and evolving personas that aespa will unveil in this new album,” the agency said. 

In between these albums, the group also released their English-language single “Better Things” in August.

And although no other details about Drama have been provided yet, fans are already looking forward to the group’s new music. 

Drama is set to drop on November 10.

2023 for aespa

Outside of their album releases, aespa alo recently wrapped up their first world concert tour called SYNK: Hyper Line. It included stops across the United States, Asia, and Europe. 

In May, the group made history as the first K-pop act to attend the Cannes Film Festival. The quartet attended the prestigious event as the global ambassador of the luxury Swiss jewelry Chopard. 

Aside from that, aespa also recently collaborated with footwear brand Crocs. 

Featured image: aespa shares photo from filming ‘Better Things.’ Credit: Facebook/aespa

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SM Entertainment Criticized for Its Mismanagement of NCT 127’s ‘Fact Check’ Comeback

NCT 127 performs 'Fact Check' during the A Night of Festival event. Credit: Facebook/NCT 127

Comebacks are generally an exciting time for K-pop fans. Although NCTzens had high anticipation for NCT 127’s Fact Check album, the excitement was immediately cut short due to SM Entertainment’s alleged poor management of the group.

NCT 127 returns with ‘Fact Check’

On October 6, NCT 127 unveiled their fifth full-length album Fact Check. Consisting of a total of nine tracks, the album received a warm response due to the group’s distinct musical style. However, fans were perplexed to see the significant drop of the album sales as compared to the group’s previous records.

According to a Korean Sales Tracker, Fact Check recorded sales of 256,800 copies on its first day. Then, for its following days, it even recorded less sales ranging from 6,000 to 15,000 each day.

The numbers showed a shocking change in contrast to the group’s previous albums. In 2021, Sticker achieved an impressive 2.4 Million first-week sales. Meanwhile, 2 Baddies recorded a remarkable 1.5 Million copies within the initial week. 

NCTzens criticism towards SM Entertainment

With the drastic difference, the group’s fanbase, NCTzens, were quick to call out SM Entertainment for their historical problem with mismanaging stocks.

 According to fans, the insufficient production of the album has caused delays in delivering the products to the public. 

Additionally, NCTzens took their disappointment to social media and demanded better service by trending the hashtag #RestockFactCheckAlbums. 

https://twitter.com/joyin127/status/1710833092209070269

Moreover, NCTzens were frustrated to learn that NCT 127 would not be performing on popular music shows including MCountdown and Inkigayo on the first week of their comeback, limiting the supposed promotion for the album.

Aside from that, fans were also enraged with the sudden delay of release of Fact Check’s official music video. Supposedly released at 1PM, the video was pushed back to 3PM last October 6. 

Following the postponement, SM Entertainment released an apology for keeping fans waiting. However, NCTzens were more disappointed to see that even the notice was delayed. According to the fanbase, this is not the first time NCT’s releases have been postponed.

Amidst the backlash SM Entertainment is facing, the agency has yet to make an official statement regarding the fans’ complaints.

Featured image: NCT 127 performs ‘Fact Check’ during the A Night of Festival event. Credit: Facebook/NCT 127

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NCT New Team Releases Pre-debut Single ‘Hands Up’

NCT New Team performs 'Hands Up' during NCT Nation: To the World concert. Credit: Twitter/NCT Japan

2023 is shaping to be a busy year for the NCT New Team!

On Sunday, October 8, the latest act from SM Entertainment released their pre-debut album Hands Up. 

Hands Up has two songs, with the title track having the same name of the album. Described as a dance anthem, “Hands Up” is characterized with synth rhythms and dynamic instrumentation. Additionally, the song aims to highlight the lively spirit of the group. 

Meanwhile, the second track “We Go!” is characterized by pop-infused melodies and guitar arrangements. For this song, the lyrics reflect the idols’ passion for reaching their dreams. 

Although it came as a surprise, fans of NCT New Team welcomed the release with open arms. As it gives the supporters a glimpse of what the group can offer. 

Moreover, the release of Hands Up came days after NCT New Team officially launched their social media accounts. Since then, the members have been releasing photos and teasers. 

Based on their posters, the group marked October 8 and October 19 as special dates. Notably, Hands Up was released on October 8. But as for what will happen on October 19, there’s still no details yet. 

After the release of their single, the group is also set to embark on a pre-debut tour titled LASTART. According to reports, it will have a total of 24 shows across nine Japanese cities. 

Ready for NCT New Team? 

Initially a septet, NCT New Team was formed through the reality show NCT Universe: LASTART. 

On October 2, SM Entertainment announced that Jungmin will no longer debut with the group due to health reasons. 

Following this, the group will only continue with six members: Sion, Riku, Yushi, Daeyoung, Ryo, and Sakuya. 

Following the conclusion of NCT Universe: LASTART, the new unit participated in the NCT NATION concerts in Japan alongside other NCT units. 

Moreover, SM Entertainment has earlier confirmed that the NCT New Team will be the last chapter to NCT’s limitless expansion concept. Previously, it was stated that the group would be called NCT Tokyo. But the agency has yet to unveil the group’s final name. 

As of writing, SM Entertainment has yet to reveal the debut details of NCT New Team.

Featured image: NCT New Team performs ‘Hands Up’ during NCT Nation: To the World concert. Credit: Twitter/NCT Japan

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Look: SNSD’s Taeyeon and (f)x’s Amber Liu Reunite at Paris Fashion Week

Taeyeon and Amber were sitting together at a Paris Fashion Week event. Credit: Instagram/Rain Magazine

Here’s a small treat for you, 2nd generation stans! SNSD’s Taeyeon and f(x(’s Amber Liu just had a brief reunion at the Paris Fashion Week. 

On Monday, October 2, the prestigious Louis Vuitton Women’s Spring-Summer 2024 show was held. There, fans were delighted to see Taeyeon of Girls Generation and Amber Liu of f(x) sitting beside each other.

Taeyeon’s attendance in the event was expected as she was sent as the Korean ambassador for the luxury house. But to fan’s surprise, Amber was also at the show.

Additionally, the K-pop stars were also captured having a little chit chat and a quick hug, which warmed the hearts of fans. Moreover, several fashion magazines also took the chance to interview both stars. 

Given that it’s been awhile since the two idols were seen together, fans couldn’t help but gush over their reunion. 

Others have pointed out that the last time the pair was seen together in public was eight years ago. To note, Taeyeon and Amber worked together for the track “Shake That Brass,” which was released in 2015.

On social media, some fans wrote that they were even getting emotional seeing the two together again. Which also prompted other fans to look back at Taeyeon and Amber’s bond when the latter was still under SM Entertainment. 

Amber and Taeyeon’s activities now

Amber Liu was once a prominent member of the girl group f(x) under SM Entertainment. However in 2019, the group announced an indefinite hiatus following the expiration of their contracts with the agency. 

Since then, Amber has embarked as a solo artist and focused her promotions in China. Although f(x( has been inactive for years now, the members reassured their fans that the group did not disband.

Recently, Amber’s fellow f(x) member Krystal Jung opened up how she’s hoping for a group reunion in the future. Additionally, she also disclosed that they didn’t even expect that the 2015 album 4 Walls was going to be their last. 

For those unfamiliar with f(x), they debuted as a five-member group in September 2009. They rose to fame for songs “Electric Shock,” “Hot Summer,” and “Nu Abo.” In October 2019, member Sulli passed away. 

On the other hand, Taeyeon remains as one of the leading artists of SM Entertainment. Aside from doing group activities with SNSD, she has also been active as a soloist. In  August, the vocalist just finished the Asian leg of her fifth concert tour, The Odd of Love.

Featured image: Taeyeon and Amber were sitting together at a Paris Fashion Week event. Credit: Instagram/Rain Magazine

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Jungmin Departs From NCT New Team

Jungmin in a scene still from 'NCT Universe: The Lastart' episode. Credit: Twitter/NCT Universe: The Lastart

Just a month after the finale of reality show NCT Universe: LASTART, SM Entertainment has announced the departure of member Jungmin from NCT New Team. 

On Monday, October 2, the agency announced that Jungmin will no longer debut with the group due to health reasons. 

According to the label, the NCT New Team was preparing for their pre-debut tour that is set to start on October 8. However, Jungmin wasn’t able to participate in practice given his health condition. 

While the chosen pre-debut member was focusing on his treatment, SM Entertainment shared that they continue THEIR discussion with the aspiring idol’s family and medical staff. 

“After deep consideration with Jungmin’s health as the top priority, Jungmin will not join NCT New Team,” they said. Additionally, the agency explained that he’ll return to being a trainee as he completely focus on recovery.

Moreover, they apologized to fans who felt shocked with the sudden news. But the agency also asked for continued support for Jungmin as he work on getting better. 

With this, NCT New Team will continue with six members moving forward. 

What we know about NCT New Team so far

In NCT Universe: LASTART, a total of 11 trainees underwent four rounds of missions showcasing their potential as K-pop idols. Super Junior’s Eunhyuk and soloist Boa served as art directors and mentors in the show.

Initially, SM Entertainment announced that NCT New Team will only have six members. But during the program’s last episode, it was revealed that the unit would have seven members instead. 

Prior to the show, SMRookies  members Sion and Yushi were already confirmed to be the part of the unit. The two have been fixed participants in all of the missions for the series. 

Those who were included in the lineup were Riku, Sakuya, Daeyoung, Jungmin, and Ryo. 

As of writing, SM Entertainment has yet to reveal the debut details of NCT New Team. 

But it can be recalled that the new unit participated in the NCT NATION concerts in Japan alongside other NCT units. 

Moreover, SM Entertainment has earlier confirmed that the NCT New Team will be the last chapter to NCT’s limitless expansion concept. Previously, it was stated that the group would be called NCT Tokyo. But the agency has yet to unveil the group’s final name. 

With Jungmin’s departure from NCT New Team, NCT will now have a total of 26 members in its six units instead. The six units are as follows: NCT 127, NCT Dream, Wayv, NCT U, NCT DoJaeJung, and the LASTART group. 

Featured image: Jungmin in a scene still from ‘NCT Universe: The Lastart’ episode. Credit: Twitter/NCT Universe: The Lastart

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Super Junior Announces Fan Meeting for 18th Anniversary

Super Junior during their 'Super Show 9' concert in Ho Chi Minh. Credit: Facebook/Super Junior

Mark your calendars, ELFs! K-pop boy group Super Junior will be marking their 18th debut anniversary with a fan meeting titled 1t’s 8lue. 

On Tuesday, September 26, the “Sorry, Sorry” hitmakers announced that the event will be held twice at the Grand Peace Palace at Kyung Hee Universe, Seoul on November 4. The first show is set for 2 pm, while the second show is set for 7 pm.

Members Leeteuk, Heechul, Yesung, Shindong, Eunhyuk, Donghae, Siwon, Ryeowook, and Kyuhyun are confirmed to participate in the fan meeting. 

According to a Naver article, the 1t’s 8lue show will not only perform their hit songs, but also prepare various activities that would entertain their fans. Additionally, attendees can expect talking segments wherein the members will look back on their 18-year career. 

Moreover, there will also be several games that will highlight the group’s friendship and chemistry. Considering that Super Junior are known to be a variety of idols, fans are already looking forward to a fun and sentimental time. 

Interestingly, the 1t’s 8lue would serve as the group’s first fan meeting in more than a year. In April 2022, they held the Return of the King fan meeting in Japan. Given that it’s been a while since fans have seen them, the show will also be livestreamed online for fans who can’t attend the event in person. 

Super Junior as Hallyu Kings

Initially a 12-member group, Super Junior debuted under SM Entertainment in November 2005. In 2006, member Kyuhyun was added as the group was meant to have rotating members. 

Throughout its career, the group faced a series of controversies and lineup changes. But they also set several records, and earned the title of “Hallyu Kings.” Currently, only nine members actively promote with the group. 

In July 2023, members Donghae, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun didn’t renew their contracts with SM Entertainment. However, the three promised to still be active in Super Junior activities.

Now, Kyuhyun is under the Antenna agency while Donghae and Eunhyuk have established ODE Entertainment.

Featured image: Super Junior during their ‘Super Show 9’ concert in Ho Chi Minh. Credit: Facebook/Super Junior

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RED VELVET Reportedly Preparing for November Comeback

New reports suggest that RED VELVET is preparing for a November comeback amidst rumors of Irene leaving SM Entertainment

RED VELVET is reportedly busy preparing for a November comeback. The update comes soon after reports that leader Irene is planning not to renew her contract with SM Entertainment.

Is RED VELVET Preparing For A New Comeback Later This Year?

A new report reveals that the girl group is currently in the final stages of preparations for a November comeback. If this is true, fans can look forward to the release of RED VELVET’s 3rd full album, marking their first full album release in six years since ‘Perfect Velvet’ in 2017.

This comeback promises to be a significant moment in the group’s career, generating immense excitement among their devoted fanbase and the K-pop community at large. As they prepare to unleash their musical prowess once again, anticipation is running high for what RED VELVET has in store for their eagerly awaiting audience.

Recent reports have given rise to speculations that Irene might opt not to renew her long-standing contract with SM Entertainment, sparking concerns about the extended hiatus of RED VELVET. The group’s last activity was in June 2023 when they wrapped up their ‘R to V’ World Tour.

This development is disconcerting for fans, especially as only one member’s continued affiliation with SM Entertainment has been confirmed so far, which is Seulgi’s contract renewal. The contract statuses of the other RED VELVET members, namely Irene, Wendy, Joy, and Yeri, remain undisclosed.

While SM Entertainment has maintained silence regarding these negotiations, the group dropped hints during a livestream in August about their preparations for releasing their third full album, further fueling anticipation and intrigue surrounding their plans.

With Irene’s contract decision shrouded in uncertainty and the undisclosed status of the other members’ agreements, fans are anxiously awaiting official updates from the label, hoping for the continuation of RED VELVET’s musical journey together. Stay tuned for further developments in this ongoing story.

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