SM Entertainment has expressed regret over the manner and content of the urgent press conference held today by INB100, which claimed unfair treatment of Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin (collectively known as CBX).
SM stated, “The essence of this issue is the improper solicitation (tampering) by MC Mong and Chaga One towards our artists under exclusive contracts with us. Despite valid contracts being in place, CBX began to make baseless complaints to nullify their renewed agreements. We listened patiently and ultimately allowed CBX to pursue solo activities independently, despite no obligation to amend valid contracts, to avoid disruption to EXO’s activities.”
SM further clarified, “We agreed to revise the contract, even though we had no obligation, to prevent legal disputes from affecting other EXO members and fans. Today, it became clear that INB100, which CBX claimed to operate independently, is actually a subsidiary of MC Mong and Chaga One. This confirms our suspicions about tampering.”
“During the settlement last year, we tried to protect EXO by issuing a message not contesting the tampering between MC Mong, Chaga One, and CBX. However, today’s conference revealed that INB100 is now a subsidiary of MC Mong and Chaga One, and they have sent us a notice suggesting the settlement is no longer valid. CBX wants to enjoy the benefits of being EXO members without fulfilling their obligations,” SM added.
SM also refuted claims by INB100 regarding unfair distribution commission rates, stating, “We mentioned helping negotiate better terms with distributors to assist CBX. SM cannot determine other distributors' rates. The settlement excluded commission rate changes because we had no authority over it.”
In conclusion, SM emphasized their efforts to protect EXO and expressed their intent to respond legally to the ongoing disputes with CBX.