Lay, the Chinese member of K-pop group EXO, has issued an apology for his unexpected absence from the group’s long-awaited fan meeting, EXO’verse, held on December 14 at Inspire Arena in Incheon.
The event marked EXO’s first full-member fan gathering in nearly 1 year and 8 months, with two scheduled sessions at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. featuring members Suho, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, Sehun, and Lay. Fans were highly anticipating the reunion of the complete group.
However, on the day of the event, it was announced that Lay would not be attending, raising concerns and sparking online speculation. SM Entertainment released a statement through the official fan community, explaining, “Due to unavoidable circumstances, Lay will not be able to attend the fan meeting. We ask for your understanding as we inform you of this sudden change.”
As no detailed reason was provided initially, various rumors began circulating. Some speculated whether worsening China-Japan relations and the resulting cultural restrictions might have influenced Lay’s absence from Korean activities.
Lay later took to Weibo, China’s popular social media platform, to clarify the situation, stating: “I had to urgently return to Beijing to attend an important event hosted by the National Theatre of China. I’ve arrived safely, so please don’t worry.”
He continued with a heartfelt apology: “I sincerely apologize to the members, our agency, and to everyone who experienced inconvenience due to my absence.”
Lay’s message aimed to reassure fans while expressing his regret over missing a meaningful moment with EXO and their loyal supporters. Despite his absence, the fan meeting proceeded as planned and was warmly received by fans who appreciated the presence of the other members.
Meanwhile, EXO are set to shake up the industry once again with the release of their 8th full-length album “REVERXE” on January 19, 2026. This comeback, announced by SM Entertainment on December 15, is already generating massive buzz as it marks the group’s first studio album in nearly two and a half years.
The album will include nine tracks, featuring the recently pre-released seasonal song “I’m Home.” The upcoming project follows EXO’s 7th album “EXIST”, released in July 2023.
Members Suho, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, Sehun, and Lay are confirmed to participate in this comeback. However, Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen—currently engaged in a legal dispute with SM Entertainment—will not be joining the promotions for this release.
Sources: Daum
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