EXO's Xiumin has spoken out against the alleged influence of SM Entertainment on KBS, claiming it has hindered his chances of appearing on the network’s programs.
In a statement released by Xiumin’s agency, One Hundred, they revealed, "Efforts to secure Xiumin's participation in KBS programs for his upcoming solo album release on the 10th were met with silence and non-responsiveness from the network."
The statement continued, "KBS unofficially communicated that it was not possible for Xiumin to appear on shows like 'Music Bank' where SM Entertainment artists perform. Despite persistent attempts to engage with KBS, our requests were disregarded."
Expressing disappointment, the agency added, "The actions of a public broadcaster in blocking us due to a purported conflict of interest are unfair. Such unjust treatment will prevent our artists from featuring on music shows concurrently with SM Entertainment's promotions. We regret having to convey this disheartening development."
One Hundred affirmed their commitment to pursuing fairness with KBS and preventing similar biases in the future, declaring, "We will persevere in our efforts to advocate for justice and ensure other artists are not subject to such discriminatory practices. We will not relent."
Xiumin's solo album 'Interview X' is scheduled for release on March 10th, as he embarks on his solo endeavors with One Hundred while continuing his EXO group activities under SM Entertainment.
In their comprehensive statement, One Hundred addressed the issue candidly:
Greetings from One Hundred,
We wish to raise a crucial matter concerning Xiumin's involvement with KBS.
Xiumin, a member of INB100, is preparing to unveil his solo album 'Interview X' on March 10th, marking a highly anticipated return after two and a half years.
Despite our concerted efforts to coordinate his appearances on music shows to delight his supporters, KBS maintained a deafening silence, neglecting to acknowledge our overtures.
Recently, KBS conveyed informally that Xiumin's participation on 'Music Bank', a platform synonymous with SM Entertainment artists, would not be feasible.
Although challenging to digest, we persisted in urging KBS to prioritize both the artist and his fanbase, yet our pleas fell on deaf ears.
It is evident that this impasse is not rooted in musical considerations but rather in a public broadcaster's decision to bar an artist based on a perceived conflict of interest with an agency.
If such inequitable circumstances persist, our artists will be unjustly sidelined when SM Entertainment talents are promoting their work on music shows.
We find it deeply unjust that KBS, a public broadcaster, would base its programming decisions solely on the preferences of a specific entity. Despite our earnest attempts, it is with regret that we share this disappointing development with our supporters.
In light of KBS’s stance hindering Xiumin and fellow artists from gracing 'Music Bank', we are resolute in championing fairness and shielding other artists from future prejudices.
While Xiumin's immediate appearance on KBS may seem uncertain, we vow not to surrender. We pledge to explore alternative avenues to deliver riveting performances and enriching experiences for our artists and fans.
We extend our sincere apologies for disseminating this troubling news, underscoring our unwavering commitment to rectifying unjust industry norms and standing in solidarity with our artists.
Loyal fans can anticipate the release of Xiumin's 'Interview X', with the artist embracing a retro-inspired aesthetic, piquing interest in his forthcoming EP.