Conflict Over Xiumin's Appearance, KBS Entertainment Center Director Says "Communication Issue, Sincerity Will Prevail"

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Hankyungcheon, Head of KBS Entertainment Center, speaking at the 2025 KBS Spring New Variety Program Briefing held on the morning of the 7th at the International Conference Room of the KBS New Building in Yeouido, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul. Provided by KBS Brand Marketing Department

KBS has issued an official statement regarding allegations that SM Entertainment exerted external pressure to block former EXO member Xiumin from appearing on the music show 'Music Bank.'

Earlier, Xiumin's agency INB100 claimed, "KBS conveyed that Xiumin cannot appear on programs featuring SM Entertainment artists, including Music Bank." They added, "We have continuously tried to contact KBS but were ignored," and stated, "We will ensure that no one suffers from unfair practices."

In response, Han Kyung-chun, head of KBS Entertainment Center, met with reporters on the 7th at the KBS New Building International Conference Room in Yeouido, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, and explained, "Based on my long experience directing Music Bank, 99% of the lineup decisions are made by the production team," adding, "Ultimately, it is a communication issue between the production team and the agency."

Regarding the claim by One Hundred that "they have been unable to reach senior KBS officials for two weeks," Han denied this, saying, "That is not true." He further explained that he has been busy recently with post-surgery stitch removal and filming for '2 Days & 1 Night.'

Teaser for Xiumin's 'WHEE!' music video. Photo by INB100

Meanwhile, concerning singer Lee Mujin of Big Planet Made Entertainment under One Hundred Label, the parent company of INB100, missing the recording of KBS web entertainment 'Limousine Service' on the 5th, Han stated, "We have never considered another MC besides Lee Mujin," and added, "We will wait for his return, and we believe our sincerity will be understood through continued communication."

Broadcaster Lee Soo-geun, also from the same agency, decided not to participate in the recording of KBS Joy entertainment show 'Ask Anything' scheduled for the 7th, resulting in the cancellation of the recording. This has led to speculation that One Hundred is boycotting appearances of their affiliated entertainers in protest. Han said, "Since KBS N is a separate corporation from KBS, I will check the situation with their executives."

Broadcaster Lee Soo-geun, from the same company, also decided not to participate in the recording of KBS Joy entertainment show 'Ask Anything' scheduled for the 7th, leading to the cancellation of the recording that day. There is speculation that One Hundred is protesting by boycotting appearances of their affiliated entertainers. A KBS Entertainment Center official said, "Since KBS N is different from our company, I will inquire about the situation with their executives."