Tag: SM Entertainment

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EXO Baekhyun Chen and Xiumin Apologize to Fans for SM Lawsuit

EXO’s Baekhyun Chen and Xiumin have taken a decisive step in their ongoing conflict with SM Entertainment. The EXO-CBX members have announced their plans to sue the agency over allegations of unfair profit distribution.

Baekhyun Chen and Xiumin vs SM Entertainment

Earlier this week, the EXO-CBX members held a press conference to voice their concerns, accusing SM Entertainment of failing to honor an agreed-upon 5.5 percent music distribution fee for INB100. They further argued that SM Entertainment’s demand for 10 percent of their earnings from solo ventures was unjust. This press conference highlighted the deep-seated issues between the artists and their former management.

SM Entertainment responded with a counterclaim, stating that EXO-CBX had voluntarily terminated their exclusive contracts ahead of schedule. According to the agency, the trio had signed an agreement that stipulated they would remit 10 percent of their individual activity revenue to SM Entertainment as a condition for early contract termination. SM Entertainment asserted that there was no clause regarding a distribution fee in the final agreement, as the agency purportedly lacked the authority to determine such a fee.

The situation escalated further when SM Entertainment declared on June 13 that they would pursue legal action to ensure EXO-CBX adhered to the terms of their agreement. The announcement came after a series of additional statements from both parties, each attempting to clarify their stance and justify their actions.

EXO-CBX Statement Includes Apology to Fans

On June 14, Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin issued a new statement, revealing their decision to sue SM Entertainment over the disputed profit distribution. In their statement, the trio expressed their frustration with the agency’s practices and reiterated their commitment to seeking justice through legal channels.

“As SM has filed a lawsuit first, we will actively participate by revealing everything, including our negotiations from last year.

“Additionally, regarding the distribution of profits that we had always doubted, we will file a lawsuit against SM over the distribution of profits. Through this lawsuit, we will assert our just rights by receiving accounting and profit-distribution data as decided by the law and our exclusive contracts. We will also reveal to the court that SM’s profit-distribution system is wrong.

“Also, through our complaint to the Fair Trade Commission regarding the unfairness of our exclusive contracts, we will receive a proper judgment from the law.”

They also took the opportunity to apologize to their fans for the turmoil and uncertainty that the dispute has caused.

“To our fans who always send us love and support and should only receive joy [in return], we feel truly sorry for bringing you anxiety and disappointment due to the same issue as last year.

“In the future, we will minimize releasing official statements, and we will try to resolve this situation quickly.

“Also, we promise to remain a Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin who can forever be together with you through the precious memories we’ve made with you all.”

This legal battle marks a significant chapter in the ongoing struggle for fair treatment and transparency in the K-pop industry. As EXO-CBX and SM Entertainment prepare for their court showdown, fans and industry observers alike will be closely watching to see how this conflict unfolds and what implications it may have for other artists and agencies in similar situations. The outcome of this lawsuit could potentially reshape the dynamics of artist management and contract negotiations in the K-pop world.

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Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen Issue Statement Regarding EXO Activities

EXO’s Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin (collectively known as EXO-CBX) recently provided clarifications regarding their EXO activities amidst an ongoing dispute with SM Entertainment.

EXO-CBX vs SM Entertainment

On June 10, representatives of Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin held a press conference to outline the alleged breach of settlement terms by SM Entertainment. During the conference, the representatives accused SM Entertainment of failing to honor a 5.5 percent commission rate for albums and music guaranteed to INB100, the label managing EXO-CBX’s individual activities. Furthermore, they alleged that SM Entertainment was demanding an unfair 10 percent of the artists’ revenue from individual activities, such as solo albums, concerts, and advertisements. Despite sending a certification of contents to SM Entertainment in April regarding the breach, they had not received a reply.

In response, SM Entertainment issued a statement refuting the claims made by EXO-CBX’s representatives. They asserted that they had not breached any settlement terms and maintained that their actions were within the bounds of the agreed terms.

Will EXO-CBX Still Participate in Future EXO Activities?

On June 11, a media outlet reported further developments regarding EXO’s planned activities. It was revealed that EXO had been in discussions to release new music in the winter, with talks taking place since the beginning of the year. However, due to the ongoing dispute between Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin and SM Entertainment, the plans for this release are now uncertain. The media outlet suggested that the conflict has cast doubt over the feasibility of the winter release, potentially delaying the group’s plans.

Since then, EXO-CBX issued a statement through their agency INB100 confirming their commitment to EXO and the group’s future activities.

“The press conference on June 10 was held to publicly inform that it is unfair to pay 10 percent of the artists’ individual earnings to SM, who first breached the agreement,” it read. “This has no relation to the continuation of EXO’s full group activities, and CBX (Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin) promises once again to fans that they will earnestly participate in EXO’s full group activities with SM in the future.”

Similarly, SM Entertainment addressed the issue with a statement. “It is true that we are planning [the release of EXO’s music]. There has been no further discussion about changes to the plan,” it read.

As both sides navigate the dispute, the hope remains that a fair agreement can be reached, ensuring that EXO can move forward with their planned activities and continue to deliver the music that has garnered them a dedicated global fanbase.

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EXO-CBX Reveals SM Entertainment’s Alleged Breach Of Settlement

EXO-CBX is continuing to fight against SM Entertainment. The legal representatives for Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen have just revealed details about their former company’s alleged breach of settlement in a press conference.

EXO-CBX’s Legal Representatives Expose SM Entertainment’s Alleged Breach of Settlement

On June 10, representatives of EXO’s Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin, collectively known as EXO-CBX, held a press conference to address their ongoing dispute with their former agency, SM Entertainment. P_Arc Group chairwoman Cha Ga Won, INB100 CEO Kim Dong Joon, and attorney Lee Jae Hak attended the event. INB100 is currently managing the individual activities of the three artists.

During the conference, attorney Lee Jae Hak presented significant allegations against SM Entertainment, stating that the agency had attempted to breach settlement agreements previously established with EXO-CBX. He highlighted that SM Entertainment failed to honor the agreed-upon 5.5 percent commission rate for albums and music guaranteed to INB100. Instead, SM Entertainment has been demanding an increased commission rate of 10 percent from the artists’ revenue generated through their individual activities, including solo album releases, concerts, and endorsements.

Attorney Lee Jae Hak elaborated that this move by SM Entertainment constitutes unfair practice. He confirmed that it is not in line with the settlement terms agreed upon by both parties. To address this breach, a certification of contents was sent to SM Entertainment in April. However, despite this formal communication, there has been no response from SM Entertainment, further complicating the situation.

The Fight Continues

The press conference was a critical step for EXO-CBX in making their stance public. It also sheds light on the alleged unfair practices of their former agency. Additionally, it is aimed to gather public support and awareness regarding the challenges they are facing. The dispute also highlights broader issues within the entertainment industry. This includes contract fairness and the treatment of artists.

As the situation develops, fans and industry observers are keenly watching how SM Entertainment will respond and whether the dispute will be resolved amicably or escalate further. The outcome of this dispute could also potentially set a precedent for future contractual agreements and artist-agency relationships in the K-pop industry. For now, EXO-CBX also continues to stand firm in their position, advocating for fair treatment and the rightful fulfillment of their agreed terms.

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SM Founder Lee Soo Man Delivers Keynote Speech on AI Technology

Lee Soo Man, the founder and former chief producer of SM Entertainment, has made a rare public appearance at an important event. During his appearance, Lee delivered a keynote speech on the growing influence of AI technology in the K-Pop industry.

Lee Soo Man Delivers Keynote Speech at CISAC 2024

The SM Entertainment founder attended the annual general meeting of the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) as a keynote speaker. The event took place on May 30 KST at the Conrad Hotel in Yeouido, Yeongdeungpo, Seoul. In his speech, Lee Soo Man shared his insights on the intersection of the AI industry and K-Pop, highlighting the potential for innovation and growth within the music industry.

During his speech, Lee noted the significance of AI technology in the entertainment industry.

“AI and chatbot technology are rapidly changing the ways we communicate today,” he said. “Human-like or even more attractive models are gaining human fans. They also started communicating with fans in real-time. I think AI chatbots could become humans’ best friends and even lovers.”

He then spoke about the integration of AI and K-Pop.

“This technology will greatly contribute to improved communication with fans worldwide. The grafting of K-pop and AI is a fusion of culture and technology that promises broad interactions with fans,” Lee said. “AI already possesses amazing capabilities in text generation and image creation. But it is also true that with the advancement of AI, issues such as copyright infringement, illegal copying and distribution, plagiarism, and the exposure of unprotected creative works leading to economic losses for creators could arise.”

Lee also addressed the possibility of AI-related issues.

“Clear copyright laws need to be enacted, and the development and global standardization of copyright infringement prevention technologies are necessary. I believe that AI chatbots, avatars, and robots should be issued a kind of ID card, essentially making them part of a real-name system,” he stated.

Lee Soo Man left SM Entertainment in March last year due to internal management disputes.

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aespa Winter to Miss Scheduled Promotions After M Countdown Fire

Winter will be sitting out aespa’s current schedule due to health issues. The announcement was made shortly after a M Countdown fire broke out during pre-recording.

M Countdown Fire Breaks Out During Pre-Recording

On May 16, a minor fire broke out during aespa’s pre-recording for “M Countdown.” Fortunately, there were no injuries reported from this incident.

Mnet, the broadcasting company behind “M Countdown,” released an official statement detailing the event: “During an artist’s pre-recording for ‘M Countdown,’ a fire broke out when a spark flew into the set located at the corner of the stage. The fire was detected in its early stage and was extinguished immediately, and at the same time, the artists and the audience were evacuated from the stage.”

The prompt action by the crew ensured that the fire was quickly controlled, minimizing potential damage and risk. Mnet further assured, “All ‘M Countdown’ sets are being treated to be flame retardant, and we will carefully re-examine the maintenance status to prevent the same problem from recurring.” This statement underscores Mnet’s commitment to safety and prevention of future incidents.

aespa Schedule Disrupted

It was later confirmed that aespa was the group recording at the time of the fire. Despite the disruption, a source from Mnet confirmed that the recording of aespa’s comeback stage was completed successfully and will be broadcast without any issues. The source clarified, “No additional recording was carried out after the fire.”

In the wake of the incident, SM Entertainment, aespa’s management company, announced that member Winter would not participate in the live broadcast on May 16 due to health concerns. SM Entertainment’s statement read:

“Today, a problem occurred on set during the pre-recording of ‘M Countdown.’ Afterwards, it was determined that Winter needs rest and stability due to her poor health condition, so only Karina, Giselle, and Ningning will attend today’s ‘M Countdown’ live broadcast. Winter’s participation in other scheduled activities will be decided in consideration of her recovery status.”

Despite Winter’s absence, aespa will perform “Supernova,” one of the double title tracks from their first full-length album, on “M Countdown” as planned. The remaining members, Karina, Giselle, and Ningning, will carry on with the live performance, ensuring that fans still get to see a part of the group’s highly anticipated comeback.

The incident highlights the unpredictability of live production environments and the importance of safety protocols. The quick response by Mnet’s staff and the subsequent measures taken reflect the industry’s vigilance in protecting artists and audiences alike. Fans are undoubtedly concerned about Winter’s health, but they can take solace in knowing that her well-being is being prioritized.

As aespa moves forward with their promotional activities, the group’s resilience and the support from their management and fans will be crucial. The performance of “Supernova” on “M Countdown” marks a significant moment in their career, showing their dedication and professionalism even in the face of unexpected challenges.

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Winwin Breaks Silence on Being Left Out of WayV Promotions

Winwin‘s decision to personally address his absence from upcoming WayV promotions has shed light on the situation, sparking a wave of reactions and sentiments from fans.

Winwin Breaks Silence on WayV Promotions Absence

While SM Entertainment initially attributed Winwin’s absence to his drama filming schedule, Winwin’s own statement has provided a different perspective on the matter with WayV.

“At the end of last year, I got told by the team that we would start preparing a new album in May. So from January to April this year, I participated in the TV series shooting, but the plan to produce the album was suddenly brought forward to the end of March. At that time, I was on the set, shooting my main scene, and I really couldn’t adjust the time to participate in group activities. In order to participate in the new album, I have communicated with the team about various alternatives, but the final result is that it is a pity that I can’t participate in this comeback. I want to say sorry to Wayzenni, who are looking forward to our WayV’s comeback. I also wish that WayV’s comeback can achieve good results. I will be here to support everyone,” he wrote.

Fans React to SM Entertainment’s Decision

Fans have voiced their disappointment and frustration with SM Entertainment, expressing concerns that the label may have intentionally excluded Winwin from the group’s activities. Many fans have criticized the company’s scheduling practices, highlighting a perceived lack of communication and transparency in managing their artists’ commitments.

Winwin’s decision to speak out has prompted fans to rally behind him, offering messages of support and solidarity. His willingness to address the situation directly has not only provided clarity but also underscored the importance of open communication between artists, fans, and management.

As discussions continue to unfold within the fan community, Winwin’s statement serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in the entertainment industry. Fans also remain hopeful that SM Entertainment will address their concerns and prioritize the well-being and inclusion of all artists under their label.

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EXO Chanyeol Teases Upcoming EP With New Recording Studio Photo

It looks like Chanyeol is already hard at work on his solo album. The EXO member has posted a new recording studio photo. The update comes shortly after SM Entertainment confirmed that Park Chanyeol will release a solo EP later this year.

Chanyeol Shares Recording Studio Photo After Debut EP Confirmation

Taking to Instagram Stories, Chanyeol posted a grainy photo showing himself in the studio during a possible recording. It confirms that the EXO member is already hard at work on his debut EP that was previously confirmed by SM Entertainment.

SM Entertainment’s detailed roadmap for the second and third quarters of 2024 has sent waves of excitement through the K-pop community. With a lineup that reads like a who’s who of the industry’s biggest names, fans have plenty to look forward to in the coming months.

The third quarter, in particular, promises a flurry of solo mini albums, with heavyweights like EXO’s Chanyeol, SHINee’s Key, RED VELVET’s Irene, and NCT’s Jaehyun all slated for releases. Each artist brings their own unique style and charisma to the table, ensuring a diverse range of music for fans to enjoy.

But the excitement doesn’t end there. The third quarter will also see the release of full albums from powerhouses like GIRL GENERATION’s Taeyeon and NCT WISH, adding even more anticipation to an already stacked lineup. With each release, SM Entertainment continues to solidify its reputation as a trailblazer in the industry, delivering top-tier talent and unparalleled creativity to fans around the world.

Although Chanyeol has yet to release a solo album, he has worked on several solo singles since debuting with EXO in 2012. He previously released the single “SSFW” in 2019 and “Good Enough” in 2023. Chanyeol has also embarked on a solo fan meeting tour across Asia that began in late 2023 and concluded last month.

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Kakao Acquisition of SM Entertainment Formally Approved by Korea Fair Trade Commission

The Korea Fair Trade Commission (FTC) has given its nod to the merger and acquisition (M&A) deal between Kakao and SM Entertainment, albeit with a watchful eye and certain conditions attached.

Korea Fair Trade Commission Approves Kakao SM Entertainment Acquisition

The approval, granted on May 2 KST, marks a significant development in the Korean music industry, as it brings together two major players under one umbrella. However, concerns regarding potential anti-competitive practices prompted the FTC to impose restrictions aimed at safeguarding market dynamics.

Kakao, renowned as a dominant force in digital music planning, production, and distribution through its flagship platform Melon, joined forces with SM Entertainment, a heavyweight in the realm of music production. The prospect of these two powerhouses merging raised eyebrows at the FTC, who feared that it could stifle competition and lead to monopolistic tendencies in the market.

The commission identified two plausible scenarios that could tilt the scales of competition unfavorably. Firstly, there’s the possibility of Kakao and SM Entertainment forming an exclusive partnership, leveraging Melon’s reach to corner the market on digital music distribution. Secondly, concerns were raised about Melon prioritizing content from its subsidiaries, potentially sidelining offerings from other entities and distorting fair competition.

The Future of SM Entertainment

To address these apprehensions, the FTC outlined stringent measures that Kakao must adhere to. Kakao is mandated to provide digital music and content to all competing streaming platforms upon request, barring any valid reasons for refusal. Moreover, the content must be furnished equitably and promptly to ensure a level playing field for all market participants.

In addition to these stipulations, a monitoring body will be instituted to keep a vigilant eye on Melon’s operations for a duration of three years. This watchdog entity will scrutinize Melon’s activities, specifically looking out for any signs of preferential treatment towards affiliated companies, thereby ensuring compliance with fair trade practices.

The FTC’s decision reflects a balancing act between fostering innovation and competition while preventing the consolidation of undue market power. By imposing these conditions, the commission aims to uphold the principles of fair competition and safeguard the interests of consumers and market players alike. As Kakao and SM Entertainment embark on this new chapter of collaboration, their adherence to these regulatory measures will be closely watched, shaping the trajectory of the Korean music industry in the years to come.

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SM Entertainment Launches New Label KRUCIALIZE

SM Entertainment‘s recent announcement of the launch of their new music label, KRUCIALIZE, has sent waves of excitement and speculation throughout the K-Pop community. The unveiling of KRUCIALIZE marks a significant expansion for SM Entertainment, one of the industry’s leading entertainment companies, as they venture into new territory with this innovative venture.

SM Entertainment Launches KRUCIALIZE

The official launch of KRUCIALIZE was heralded by a captivating trailer released across SM Entertainment’s official social media platforms, offering fans a tantalizing glimpse into the label’s aesthetic and vision. Additionally, the announcement hinted at an immersive experience for fans, with the promise of a physical location opening its doors later in May, further solidifying SM Entertainment’s commitment to engaging with their audience in innovative ways.

Accompanying the trailer was a visually stunning “label film,” presented as a short-film one-off drama. The cinematic offering provided further insight into the ethos and artistic direction of KRUCIALIZE, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting new chapter in SM Entertainment’s storied history.

Why Does It Look Familiar?

In the midst of the excitement surrounding KRUCIALIZE’s launch, netizens have been quick to share their reactions and observations. Some eagle-eyed fans noted similarities between KRUCIALIZE’s star-like logo and the ‘Lonsdaleite’ logo associated with Baekhyun’s solo concert series, sparking speculation about potential connections between the label and SM Entertainment’s roster of artists. Additionally, references to past legal disputes involving EXO members, including Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen, have fueled further discussion about the implications of the new label within the context of SM Entertainment’s history and relationship with its artists.

While details surrounding KRUCIALIZE remain shrouded in mystery, revelations from the United States Patent Office shed light on SM Entertainment’s plans for the label. Records indicate that SM Entertainment filed trademark applications for KRUCIALIZE as far back as November 2023, signaling meticulous planning and strategic foresight behind the launch. However, the company has yet to make any official press announcements regarding the nature of the music label, leaving fans to speculate about potential implications, such as whether KRUCIALIZE will function as a subsidiary akin to Scream Records or if it will serve as a platform for emerging talent within the SM Entertainment ecosystem.

As anticipation mounts and speculation continues to swirl, SM Entertainment’s foray into the realm of KRUCIALIZE represents a bold and ambitious step forward for the industry powerhouse, promising exciting new opportunities for artists and fans alike. With the launch of KRUCIALIZE, SM Entertainment reaffirms its position as a pioneering force within the ever-evolving landscape of K-Pop, poised to shape the future of music and entertainment for years to come.

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RIIZE Finally Unveils Redesigned Light Stick

The unveiling of RIIZE’s official fanlight marks a significant moment for both the group and their devoted fanbase. But what are people saying about the redesigned light stick?

RIIZE Debuts Redesigned Light Stick

After an initial setback with the previous design, RIIZE has listened attentively to the feedback from their fans and returned with a revamped version that aims to capture the essence of their identity while ensuring it stands out uniquely in the K-pop landscape.

The journey to this unveiling was not without its challenges. When RIIZE first teased the release of their light stick with a “coming soon” poster, they were met with a wave of criticism from fans. Many voiced concerns that the design bore a striking resemblance to another group’s light stick, raising issues of originality and authenticity. Additionally, there were apprehensions about potential cultural insensitivity due to the hand gesture depicted in the initial design.

Responding swiftly to the feedback, RIIZE’s management company, SM Entertainment, made the commendable decision to reassess and redesign the light stick. They understood the importance of addressing fans’ concerns and ensuring that the final product resonated positively with their audience. Thus, the team diligently went back to the drawing board to craft a new design that would embody the spirit of RIIZE while steering clear of any unintended controversies.

The result of this collaborative effort is a sleek and stylish light stick that proudly bears the group’s name, RIIZE, prominently in the center, flanked by stars on either side. This design not only symbolizes the group’s rise to stardom but also serves as a beacon of unity for their fans, who eagerly await the opportunity to wave it proudly during concerts and events.

While opinions among netizens may remain somewhat divided regarding the new design, the overwhelming sentiment among fans is one of relief and satisfaction. They appreciate RIIZE’s commitment to addressing their concerns and applaud the group for delivering a light stick that reflects their unique identity and artistic vision.

As RIIZE prepares to embark on new musical endeavors, the unveiling of their official light stick serves as a tangible symbol of their unwavering bond with their fans and their collective journey towards continued success and growth in the dynamic world of K-pop.

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