EXO had planned to release a full-group album this winter, but it now seems likely to be cancelled due to the ongoing conflict between EXO-CBX (Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin) and SM Entertainment.
Initial Plans and Discussions
On June 11, reports revealed that SM Entertainment and EXO initially discussed plans for a winter album release focusing on seasonal songs rather than performance-heavy tracks.
An example of such a seasonal song is First Snow, which received significant public love. Despite the members’ solo and individual activities delaying further discussions, it was understood that a winter album was still in the works.
Escalating Conflict and Emergency Press Conference
EXO’s comeback plans have faced significant challenges. On June 10, EXO-CBX held an emergency press conference, accusing SM Entertainment of unfair practices. They claimed that despite sending certified mail regarding the unfairness of receiving only 5.5% of album revenue and 10% of sales … SM had not responded for over two months.
Chaga Won, chairman of One Hundred, the parent company of EXO-CBX’s agency INB100, denied tampering allegations.
“Absolutely not,” he stated and emphasized that the EXO-CBX members still want to participate in EXO’s full-group activities.
SM Entertainment’s Response and Legal Threats
SM Entertainment quickly released a statement expressing regret and refuting the claims. They clarified, “The essence of all incidents is the improper inducement (tampering) of our artists by MC Mong and Cha Ga Won,” and explained that the claims regarding the distribution commission rate were untrue.
Furthermore, SM hinted at legal action, stating, “We are not obligated to respond to demands with improper purposes and will take necessary measures, including imposing confidentiality obligations on EXO-CBX, and will confidently address settlement-related issues within legal procedures.”
Uncertain Future for EXO’s Winter Album
Given the major conflict between EXO-CBX and SM Entertainment, it is widely believed that the recent press conference has crossed a point of no return. As a result, it is expected that it will be difficult to see EXO’s full-group album this winter unless another dramatic agreement is reached.
The K-pop community remains engaged, eagerly awaiting further developments in this high-profile dispute and its impact on EXO’s future projects.
Here are some other articles you might enjoy:
READÂ |Â SM Entertainment Demanding Profits from EXO-CBX
READ | Jinny’s Kitchen returns with Season 2 on Prime Video
Stay up-to-date on the latest K-entertainment news by following us on social media: FACEBOOK | TWITTER (X) | INSTAGRAM