Just hours before EXO’s long-awaited two-part fan meeting “EXO’verse,” SM Entertainment announced an unexpected change that quickly dampened the mood. On December 14, the agency confirmed that member Lay (Zhang Yixing) would not be able to attend the event. The long-awaited fan event is scheduled to take place at INSPIRE Arena in Incheon today
In its official statement, SM said Lay had to withdraw due to “unavoidable circumstances.”
The agency asked fans for support and understanding: “We ask for your understanding regarding this sudden change in participating members,” adding, “which we are announcing to the fans who have waited a long time and shown their support.”
The last-minute announcement left many EXO-Ls disappointed. They had been looking forward to seeing Lay reunite on stage with Suho, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, and Sehun. His appearance would have marked a rare moment, as Lay’s participation in EXO activities has been limited since he left SM Entertainment in 2022.
The fan meeting was already surrounded by tension before Lay’s absence was announced. Baekhyun, Chen, and Xiumin (CBX) were not included due to their ongoing legal dispute with SM over contract and financial issues.
Because of this, “EXO’verse” was set to move forward with a reduced lineup. This event is meant to signal the group’s next chapter and build excitement for a new EXO album planned for early 2026.
The situation became even more complicated following recent statements related to CBX. On October 29, their agency INB100 released a detailed explanation, saying the members had tried to reach an agreement with SM to participate in EXO activities and had even cleared their December schedules.
INB100 claimed that CBX accepted all of SM’s conditions. However, SM responded the same day with a firm rebuttal. The label stated that trust between the two sides had been “severely damaged” and that CBX would need to fulfill existing agreements before returning to group promotions.
After Lay’s sudden withdrawal, many fans expressed frustration, largely directed at SM for promoting an EXO event without a complete lineup. The joyful reunion has instead become a bittersweet experience.
Meanwhile, EXO has begun the promotional rollout for their January 2026 comeback; however, the comeback date and key information are yet to be announced.
