Tension is rising again between Kim Jong Dae (Chen), Byun Baek Hyun (Baekhyun), and Kim Min Seok (Xiumin)—collectively known as CBX—and SM Entertainment, as both sides present conflicting accounts over EXO’s comeback plans.
On October 29th, INB100, the trio’s agency, released a statement saying “as members of EXO, CBX are committed to a full-group comeback and have accepted all conditions proposed by SM to make it happen.”
INB100 shared a timeline claiming the group met with SM in July, entered detailed talks in September, and after an October 2nd mediation session, “clearly conveyed their intent to agree.” The agency added the artists cleared December for EXO’s return, “only to learn that the fan meeting and album release will exclude them.”
However, SM Entertainment swiftly denied the claim, saying, “We have made it clear that resolving the dispute and group activities are separate matters.” Notably, SM referred to the trio only as “Byun Baek Hyun, Kim Jong Dae, and Kim Min Seok,” avoiding their stage names or the unit name.
SM added, “We have won all disputes so far. The only request we made was that they pay the 10% of personal activity revenue stipulated in the agreement—a term still unfulfilled.” The company also noted that the trio “filed an objection on the 16th,” contradicting INB100’s claim of full acceptance.
Concluding its statement, SM said it would “fully support EXO’s activities starting in December,” signaling plans to move forward without CBX.
The trio previously sought to terminate their contracts with SM in June 2023, but most legal actions were dismissed or closed. Meanwhile, EXO—now consisting of Suho, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, Sehun, and Lay—will hold a fan meeting “EXO’verse” on December 13th and 14th at Incheon’s Inspire Arena, ahead of their eighth studio album slated for early 2026.
>> Chen, Baekhyun and Xiumin Lose All SM Lawsuits: EXO Gears Up for Six-Member Comeback
Source (1)
