EXO 13th Anniversary Celebration Faces Backlash as Fans Demand All Nine Members
The upcoming EXO 13th anniversary celebration has become the center of a heated controversy between EXO-Ls and SM Entertainment. As the K-pop powerhouse approaches their milestone 13th debut anniversary on April 8th, fans are expressing outrage over the agency’s decision to exclude several members from the official celebration. What should be a joyous occasion has instead sparked a movement, with fans worldwide uniting under the powerful hashtag #EXO_IS_NINE to demand complete representation of all nine members during this significant moment in the group’s history.
EXO 13th Anniversary Celebration Plans Ignite Fan Outrage
SM Entertainment recently announced a celebratory live event for EXO’s anniversary featuring only four members: EXO’s Suho, EXO’s Chanyeol, EXO’s D.O., and EXO’s Kai. The glaring absence of EXO’s Chen, EXO’s Baekhyun, EXO’s Xiumin (collectively known as CBX), and EXO’s Lay has left fans feeling betrayed and disappointed. EXO’s Sehun, currently fulfilling his mandatory military service, is understandably unable to participate, but fans argue that the remaining members should be included in the celebration that marks 13 years since their debut.
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The tension between EXO-Ls and SM Entertainment isn’t sudden. Since April 1st, dedicated fans have consistently trended #EXO_IS_NINE daily across social media platforms. The EXO 13th anniversary celebration controversy stems largely from SM’s perceived mistreatment of CBX, who publicly challenged the agency last year over contract disputes and unfair treatment. Meanwhile, EXO’s Lay, despite focusing on his thriving solo career in China, remains an official member of the group, making his exclusion another point of contention for the fandom.
“This is EXO’s 13th anniversary. ‘WE ARE ONE’ isn’t just a slogan—it’s a promise,” one passionate fan stated, referencing the group’s long-standing unity mantra that has guided both the members and fans through the years. This sentiment echoes throughout the EXO-L community as they fight for proper recognition of all nine members who contributed to EXO’s legendary status in K-pop history.
EXO-Ls Take Bold Action Against SM Entertainment
EXO-Ls have moved beyond online protests, taking their message directly to SM Entertainment’s doorstep. In a bold move demonstrating their commitment, fans organized a protest truck emblazoned with supportive banners to park outside SM’s headquarters in Seoul. The striking display, organized by influential fanbase @EXOBreakingNews, features powerful messages such as “13 years of EXO, 9 hearts as one” and other statements emphasizing the importance of including all members in the EXO 13th anniversary celebration.
What makes this protest particularly effective is the fans’ strategic approach. Armed with an official police permit, the EXO-Ls have ensured that SM cannot remove the truck as long as fans continue to guard it. This physical manifestation of fan disapproval stands as a daily reminder to the agency of the fandom’s unified stance.
The protests aren’t merely expressions of anger but demonstrations of unwavering loyalty. EXO-Ls emphasize they’re fighting for CBX and Lay’s rightful recognition in EXO’s rich history. “This is for the members SM keeps ignoring,” explained a dedicated fan while sharing photos of the protest truck. Despite facing criticism from some who label them as “delusional,” the fandom remains steadfast in their position. Another fan eloquently stated, “We’re EXO-Ls. We don’t split our love,” highlighting the inclusive nature of true fandom.
Final Thoughts on EXO’s 13th Anniversary Celebration Controversy
As the EXO 13th anniversary celebration date approaches, SM Entertainment has maintained a concerning silence regarding fans’ demands. While a last-minute addition of the missing members seems increasingly unlikely, EXO-Ls show no signs of backing down from their cause. Their determination underscores a fundamental truth about anniversaries—they should celebrate everyone who contributed to the journey.
“EXO isn’t complete without all nine,” wrote one emotional fan, capturing the essence of this ongoing struggle. Regardless of whether SM ultimately listens to these passionate pleas, EXO’s 13th year is already making history—not necessarily for the celebration itself, but for the remarkable display of fan loyalty that refuses to let the group’s “WE ARE ONE” motto become empty words.
What do you think, Seoul Crushers? Should SM Entertainment include all available EXO members in the anniversary celebration, or do you believe the current lineup is sufficient? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
