The conflict between EXO's unit ChenBaekXi and SM Entertainment regarding intellectual property (IP) usage fees has left fans feeling weary and frustrated.

Since INB100, the independent label representing ChenBaekXi, held a press conference accusing SM Entertainment of unfair treatment on June 10th, tensions have been steadily rising.

INB100 alleged that SM Entertainment initially agreed to reduce album distribution fees by 5.5% but failed to follow through, instead demanding 10% of individual activity revenues such as album sales, concerts, and advertisements, which the label deemed unjust.

The dispute dates back to last June when ChenBaekXi notified SM Entertainment of their intention to terminate their exclusive contract, citing issues with receiving settlement data and copies of settlement grounds. After overcoming various obstacles, SM and ChenBaekXi managed to reach a resolution that allowed the members to pursue individual activities.

However, tensions reignited when INB100 was absorbed into the subsidiary 'One Hundred,' prompting suspicions of tampering that SM Entertainment had previously raised. Fans, eagerly awaiting new developments from EXO amidst these disturbances, are now showing signs of exhaustion. Many had high hopes after hints of a winter album preparation were dropped during the group's fan meeting in April.

Public sentiment has shifted significantly with reports surfacing that ChenBaekXi allegedly did not pay IP usage fees to SM Entertainment for approximately six months.

In online communities, voices calling for ChenBaekXi's removal from EXO (Suho, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, Sehun) are growing louder. Fans argue, "SM Entertainment created both the group and the songs, they should be compensated," and express frustration with statements like, "Starting over without their name or albums seems appropriate," and "Expulsion is warranted from the start of this conflict, tarnishing the group's reputation."

Following SM Entertainment's filing of a performance claim lawsuit against ChenBaekXi on June 12th, ChenBaekXi's representatives announced on the 14th that they would counter with a settlement claim lawsuit against SM Entertainment, bringing further uncertainty to the resolution of this ongoing conflict.

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Former AOA member Kwon Min Ah—who opened up in the past about being bullied—has once again shared a deep and emotional message on social media, leaving fans feeling concerned and sending love.

On April 23, Min Ah took to her Instagram to write:
“I don’t know if I’ve become completely twisted, or if I’m just scared. Maybe I’m afraid the same thing will happen again. Everything feels scary. And I want to say something sharp to myself too—get it together.”

Along with the message, she posted a selfie where she wore a red knit top, had her hair half-up, and showed a soft pout with a calm expression. Though her outfit and style looked casual, the mood of her words felt heavy.

Fans aren’t sure if Min Ah was directing the message toward someone else or simply speaking to herself. The final line, “get it together,” sounds like a tough love reminder to herself—but also makes many wonder what she’s been going through recently.

People quickly filled the comment section with supportive messages, telling her to stay strong and reminding her she’s not alone.

Min Ah debuted with AOA in 2012 and left the group in 2019. In 2020, she made headlines when she revealed that she had been bullied during her time in the group. The confession caused a huge reaction in the K-pop world, leading to conversations about idols’ mental health and group dynamics.

Recently, she surprised fans when it was revealed she began working as a manager at a dermatology clinic, showing a new side of her life outside of the entertainment spotlight.

Fans continue to cheer her on, hoping she finds peace and happiness in whatever path she chooses next.

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