Suho opens up about EXO-CBX conflict with SM Entertainment in recent interview at SM headquarters.

Suho of EXO talked about his feelings regarding the conflict between his agency SM Entertainment and EXO-CBX. Recently, he conducted an interview at the SM headquarters in Seoul's Seongdong District for the MBN weekend mini-series "The Crown Prince Disappeared." The interview on this day was conducted amidst growing interest in the conflict between SM and EXO-CBX. On the 10th of this month, INB100, to which EXO-CBX belongs, held an emergency press conference, revealing their position that it is unfair to demand that 10% of the sales from CBX's solo activities be paid to SM as royalties, as they had been promised a 5.5% album distribution fee through Kakao by SM during last year's agreement but it was not upheld. Meanwhile, SM claimed that the essence of all these events is the unfair inducement of their artists by MC Mong and Cha Gawon, and that the exclusive contract with CBX is still valid, allowing them to engage in individual activities through their personal corporation (INB100) and agreeing to pay 10% of the personal corporation's sales to CBX. SM asserted that CBX continues to ignore the legally binding contract, enjoying only the rights and benefits as EXO members without fulfilling their obligations. On the 12th, they filed a lawsuit against CBX for breach of contract. Amidst the conflict between SM and CBX, attention was also drawn to Suho. He had already planned an interview for the end of the drama broadcast, but had to address the CBX issue before sharing his thoughts on "The Crown Prince Disappeared." In the interview that day, he cautiously mentioned that the other members, besides CBX, also learned about the press conference from the news that day and were surprised and bewildered. He expressed that it was a bit painful and that they couldn't ignore the fans' reactions, as they were more surprised than they were. He apologized to the fans, stating that the members felt the most sorry for the fans. Initially, EXO had planned to release a new album this winter. Due to the conflict, there were speculations that the album release might be canceled. However, INB100, the agency of CBX, clarified that CBX's group activities are unrelated to EXO's group activities and promised fans that CBX will continue to sincerely engage in activities with SM and EXO. In relation to this, Suho mentioned that they had been preparing for the winter album early on and had been discussing next year's activities as Sehun and Kai are nearing discharge from the military. He expressed his desire to repay the fans with music as planned, but also expressed concerns. Last June, CBX had expressed dissatisfaction with issues related to their exclusive contract, leading to a dispute with SM. After reaching an agreement, SM and CBX announced through a joint official statement that they would recognize and maintain the contract relationship while actively and continuously expanding EXO's activities through some discussions and modifications. Coincidentally, the next day, Suho was asked about this at the press call for the musical "Mozart!" At that time, he acted as a spokesperson for EXO, stating that they had reconciled with the members and were doing well to deliver better music to the fans. In the interview for "The Crown Prince Disappeared," he mentioned that whenever there were issues with EXO, he happened to be in a position to clarify things. He explained that as the leader, he felt a sense of responsibility and that he worked almost 365 days a year, always being in front of the media and people. He emphasized that he didn't think, "Why me?" and that being Suho of EXO meant he could act in dramas, release solo albums, and engage in other activities. When asked if he had spoken with the members specifically, he replied that when he asked about CBX's situation, they held a press conference and responded based on what was reported in the news. He believed that the members' biggest concern was for the fans.