EXO-CBX Contract Dispute: Legal Battle with SM Ent

EXO-CBX, a subunit of the K-pop group EXO, is embroiled in a legal battle with SM Entertainment (SM Ent) over their contract. EXO-CBX accused SM Ent of unfair contract terms and attempted to terminate their contracts, leading to a lawsuit from SM Ent. Public opinion has largely sided with SM Ent, criticizing EXO-CBX’s actions and questioning their motives. The dispute highlights the complexities of idol contracts and the power dynamics between idols and agencies. The outcome of the lawsuit could have significant implications for EXO’s future and the industry as a whole.

Background

The legal battle between SM Entertainment (SM Ent) and Big Planet Made ent (BPM) has taken a new turn, with SM Ent filing a lawsuit against EXO-CBX, a subunit of the popular K-pop group EXO. This lawsuit comes after EXO-CBX held a press conference accusing SM Ent of unfair contract terms.

EXO-CBX’s Contract Dispute

In December 2022, EXO-CBX members Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin renewed their contracts with SM Ent. However, in June 2023, they notified SM Ent of their intention to terminate their contracts, citing unfairness. After negotiations, both parties reached an agreement that allowed EXO-CBX to continue promoting as a subunit under their own agency, BPM, while EXO’s full group activities would remain under SM Ent. Additionally, a new contract was signed stipulating that 10% of EXO-CBX’s new agency’s revenue would be paid to SM Ent for the duration of the revised contract period.

The Dispute Escalates

EXO-CBX established their own agency, INB100, and began promoting individually. In April 2024, SM Ent requested a settlement based on the agreement, but EXO-CBX refused to comply. Subsequently, INB100’s merger with ONE HUNDRED, a subsidiary of BPM, raised suspicions of contract tampering.

Public Opinion Turns Against EXO-CBX

News of the dispute spread to the Korean online community theqoo, where it was met with a surprising response. Unlike the usual support for idols in such conflicts, most netizens sided with SM Ent.

EXO-CBX’s Unfavorable Image

EXO-CBX’s actions were perceived as unreasonable, even among netizens who typically support idols. Theqoo’s general opinion was that SM Ent should take legal action and strip EXO-CBX of their group name, songs, and intellectual property. Netizens criticized EXO-CBX for being irresponsible and failing to take accountability for their decisions, despite having over a decade of experience in the industry. EXO fans also expressed their desire for the remaining five members to continue promoting as EXO.

Accusations of Self-Serving Motives

Netizens were particularly critical of EXO-CBX’s pretense of acting in the best interests of their juniors. The perception was that EXO-CBX was primarily motivated by a desire to avoid fulfilling their contractual obligations while maintaining their group activities. This self-serving approach drew significant criticism.

Legal Resolution Seems Inevitable

EXO-CBX’s repeated attempts to terminate their contracts were deemed unreasonable, leaving a legal resolution as the only apparent outcome. The ongoing lawsuit between SM Ent and BPM highlights the complexities of idol contracts and the challenges faced by both parties in navigating the entertainment industry.

Conclusion

The legal battle between SM Entertainment and Big Planet Made ent over EXO-CBX’s contract dispute has captured the attention of the K-pop industry and fans alike. The case highlights the complexities of idol contracts and the challenges faced by both parties in navigating the entertainment industry. As the lawsuit progresses, it remains to be seen how this dispute will impact EXO’s future as a group and the broader landscape of idol contracts.