Tensions are running high among EXO fans as a widespread boycott of member Zhang Yixing (Lay) has emerged, set to last until the end of 2026. The campaign, launched by frustrated Korean fans, marks one of the most significant controversies in the group’s 13-year career.
The backlash exploded after SM Entertainment confirmed EXO’s long-awaited comeback with their 8th full album in early 2026, their first group activity since completing military service rotations. The comeback includes a fan meeting titled EXO’Verse, scheduled for December 14. However, the announcement revealed only six members Suho, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, Sehun, and Zhang Yixing will participate, sparking outrage online.
The absence of the CBX trio (Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin) amid an ongoing legal battle with SM was controversial enough. But it was Zhang Yixing’s inclusion that truly divided the fandom. Having left SM Entertainment in April 2022, Lay had not joined any EXO or SM-related promotions since, and his departure coincided with EXO’s 10th debut anniversary, further angering fans at the time.
While some speculate his return is a strategic move to revive EXO’s waning popularity in the Chinese market where Lay is now a top-tier star in both music and acting many Korean fans view him as a “traitor” who abandoned the group to build his solo empire.
As a result, major Korean fansites have shut down operations, vowing not to support EXO activities until the end of 2026. On October 28, one of EXO’s last active fan communities in Korea officially announced its closure. Chinese fans of Lay have also joined the boycott, disappointed with the group’s direction and internal conflicts.
K-pop insiders believe this comeback could be EXO’s most challenging yet, as they battle internal rifts, legal disputes, and a rapidly evolving industry dominated by rising Gen 5 groups like RIIZE, TWS, and CORTIS. If the 8th album underperforms, some fear it could mark the end of EXO’s era once hailed as the kings of digital sales and album charts.
Still, others believe that if SM capitalizes on nostalgia and Lay’s massive fanbase in China, EXO could reignite its pan-Asian popularity.
Since leaving SM, Zhang Yixing has focused entirely on his solo career. He’s built a music empire, served as a mentor on music shows, launched successful tours, and even founded Chromosome Entertainment Group, debuting a girl group that promoted in Korea. As an actor, he gained critical recognition in China with Crime Crackdown (2021) and No More Bets (2023). His recent art film Mumu (2025) received high praise and box office success.
Meanwhile, legal tensions continue between SM and CBX. On October 30, INB100 (CBX’s agency) reiterated its willingness to pay 10% of individual revenue, per prior agreements. However, they clarified that a reconciliation amount proposed on October 2 was arbitrary and unaccepted by either party. Both SM and CBX filed formal objections on October 16, citing the ongoing legal process.
CBX stated, “We sincerely apologize to fans who feel distressed during this dispute. We remain committed to the agreement and will do our best to restore trust with the members and reach a friendly resolution with SM Entertainment.”
As EXO heads toward one of the most anticipated and possibly most divisive comebacks in their history, the group’s legacy now hangs in delicate balance between fan loyalty, internal cohesion, and strategic reinvention.
Sources: K14
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