In 2023, a feud ignited between SM Entertainment and EXO members Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin, also known as EXO-CBX or ChenBaekXi. The dispute quickly escalated into a legal showdown as the trio took legal action against SM Entertainment in an attempt to terminate their exclusive contracts.

Alleging unfair "slave contracts" and a lack of financial transparency, Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin voiced their grievances against SM Entertainment. However, SM Entertainment rebutted the accusations, attributing external influences to EXO-CBX's decisions. Eventually, both parties reached a settlement, enabling the members to navigate their solo careers through their self-established agency, INB100 (founded by Baekhyun and a subsidiary of One Hundred Label), while maintaining their association with EXO under SM Entertainment.

Subsequently, tensions flared as INB100 accused SM of breaching the contract terms concerning royalties and revenue sharing. In response, SM initiated legal action against the members for contract breaches, leading EXO-CBX to counter-sue SM.

The rift between SM Entertainment and EXO-CBX persisted, culminating in a new dispute when One Hundred Label accused SM of blocking Xiumin from appearing on KBS.

The brewing conflict has prompted concerns among EXO fans about the potential delay of a full group comeback. Many fans expressed disappointment and skepticism about the decisions made by the departing members and the impact on the future of their beloved group. Speculations and opinions from fans continued to circulate, reflecting a mix of loyalty, disappointment, and uncertainty regarding the group's future.

Overall, the ongoing saga between SM Entertainment and EXO-CBX has captured the attention and raised doubts among fans, highlighting the complexities and challenges within the K-pop industry that could have significant implications for the renowned group.