EXO Members Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen Challenge Unfairness of SM Entertainment Contracts
Seoul, South Korea – In a surprising turn of events, popular K-pop group EXO‘s members Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen have come forward to contest the fairness of their exclusive contracts with SM Entertainment, one of the leading entertainment companies in South Korea.
On the 1st of June, Lawyer Lee Jae-hak, representing Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen, made an official statement addressing the alleged improprieties in the exclusive reservation clauses of the contracts between the artists and SM Entertainment.
Lawyer Lee stated, “Through their legal representatives, the artists have previously submitted a total of seven requests for proof of content from March 21st until the present. They have repeatedly sought transparent settlement data and copies of the settlement basis.”
He further emphasized, “Requesting accurate and transparent settlement information for previous unclear settlements is a basic and just right of the artists. SM Entertainment is obligated to respond in accordance with the terms of the exclusive contracts and the Law on the Development of the Public Culture and Arts Industry. However, SM has unjustly maintained a position of refusing to provide the requested materials.”
Moreover, Lawyer Lee argued that SM Entertainment, after previously signing long-term contracts with the artists for periods ranging from 12 to 13 years, is now attempting to extend the duration to an astounding minimum of 17 or 18 years through subsequent exclusive contracts.
This move has been regarded as an act of extreme coercion and deemed highly unfair by the artists and their legal representative.
Citing their concerns, Lawyer Lee added, “The artists feel that, considering a significant trainee period, SM has been imposing what can be described as slave contracts for a period of approximately 20 years. This is due to SM’s dominant position in the industry.”
In light of these developments, Baekhyun, Chen, and Xiumin expressed their hopes for attention and understanding, stating, “We sincerely hope that our words and our courageous stance receive the attention it deserves. We would like to extend our heartfelt apologies and gratitude to the fans who have been steadfastly supporting us.”
Recently, EXO had hinted at their upcoming group activities, raising fans’ anticipation. However, with the news of Baekhyun, Chen, and Xiumin‘s contract termination notice, all eyes are now focused on the future direction of the group’s activities and how this dispute will unfold.
The revelations by these prominent EXO members have sparked a wave of discussions and debates within the K-pop industry, highlighting the ongoing struggles between artists and entertainment companies over contract terms and fairness.
As fans and industry insiders eagerly await further developments, the outcome of this dispute could potentially reshape the landscape of artist contracts in the South Korean entertainment scene.
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