[Official Statement] SM Responds to EXO Chen's Withdrawal Demands: "No Member Changes"

SM "Chen Does Not Withdraw... Respecting EXO's Opinion, Activities Continue Without Departure"

Group EXO member Chen / Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Suwan] EXO member Chen shared his thoughts about a month after announcing his marriage, and SM Entertainment has expressed its position regarding EXO's future activities.

On the 20th, SM Entertainment stated, "Before officially announcing Chen's marriage, we had discussions with the EXO members. All members of EXO have experienced the pain of a member leaving, so they have expressed their desire to continue together without change. We also respect the opinions of the members and inform you that there will be no changes in the EXO lineup."

They continued, "Since some members are preparing for military enlistment, EXO's activities this year have been planned since last year to focus on solo and unit activities, and the members' activities will be revealed sequentially. EXO members will continue to engage in various activities as EXO, solo artists, and units to repay the love of our fans," they added.

Photo by Twitter capture

On the previous day (19th), Chen posted a heartfelt message on EXO's official fan club community. Chen wrote, "I was worried that my clumsy words might hurt you, but first, I want to apologize to everyone who has been waiting for me. I sincerely want to express my apologies to EXO-Ls who were shocked and confused by my sudden news."

He continued, "When I first wrote the message, this was something that happened to me for the first time in my life, and I was very concerned about how to convey this to the EXO-Ls who have been with me. Still, I left the message thinking I should be the one to inform you first. However, contrary to my intentions, I was deeply hurt to see that my insufficient and clumsy words caused disappointment and pain."

He also said, "I sincerely appreciate the love you have given me so far, and I know better than anyone that I am who I am today because of that love. I am very sorry for apologizing to you so late," expressing his regret.

Chen Expulsion Statement / Photo by Online Community Capture

Earlier, on the 13th of last month, Chen informed fans of his marriage and the news of his second child through a handwritten letter. In response, some EXO fans released a statement demanding Chen's removal from the team, stating, "Chen's insistence on continuing activities despite causing great hurt and confusion to fans is judged to severely damage the group's image."