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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Singer Henry revealed a surprising family story—he found out about his younger sister’s wedding at the last minute through a group chat!

On March 7, Henry is set to appear on Choi Daniel’s talk show Choi Da Cheese, where he candidly opened up about his family, childhood, and personal thoughts on marriage.

During the pre-recorded session, he shocked everyone with a story about how his own family was unaware of his sister’s wedding.

Henry shared, "When I was young, all I thought about was playing the violin and piano. My older brother, younger sister, and I were always surrounded by music, so our house felt like a music academy."

But then, he dropped a bombshell: "Recently, my sister suddenly sent a photo in our family group chat and announced her wedding. Not only me, but even our mom and dad had no idea. We were all shocked."

At first, Henry admitted he felt hurt, but after hearing his sister’s explanation, he began to understand. "She told me, ‘I didn’t want to feel stressed while preparing for the wedding. I wanted to do it just for myself.’ After hearing that, I understood her a little more."

Choi Daniel then teased him, asking, "When are you getting married? Are you going to do it quietly like your sister?"

Henry immediately shook his head, making everyone laugh, and said, "No way! I want to invite the whole world."

Henry also revealed a lesser-known side of himself beyond his "musical genius" image.

He confessed, "People think I’m naturally good, but the truth is, I have to practice three to four times more than others. Even when I stay up all night, I don’t show it."

The episode will also feature Henry talking about his first meeting with Choi Daniel, his views on marriage, and his journey in music and variety shows.

Fans can catch his full interview when Choi Da Cheese airs on March 7 at 7 PM KST on YouTube’s M:USB channel.

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