After recent controversies involving Korean management agency and record label SM Entertainment and its artists, the company has become a hot topic not only among K-pop fans, but experts in the entertainment industry as well.
Industry experts are now criticizing the talent management giant's ability to manage groups with large members. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, analysts say that the company is facing challenges of managing idol groups with large numbers of members. The report also suggests that SM is also battling with the artist's desire to decide on their own career paths.
Late last week, it was reported that Luhan of EXO, which is originally a 12-member group, has filed a contract for contract nullification with SM Entertainment. This was followed by the agency's statement confirming the filed lawsuit.
The news was welcomed negatively by the fans of the K-pop group, not only in Korea, but also from all over the world. Many of them expressed their heartbreak and disappointment, putting the blame on SM.
Barely over a week before the news broke, another controversy involving SM has surfaced. Jessica Jung of nine-member girl group Girl's Generation announced she was kicked out of the group. The agency released a statement mentioning conflict arising from Jessica's decision to launch a fashion line that allegedly affected the group's activities.
As KpopStarz noted, there is now a doubt on how SM is managing their artists, particularly the large groups. K-pop, which has gone beyond Asia and reached other countries, rapidly grew in terms of fanbase and following.
Due to the recent issues involving two of the most largely followed K-pop acts, many fans are frustrated. Other than posting harsh comments against SM, many fans also expressed their support and concern for Luhan. The hashtag #alwayssupportluhan even became a top trending topic worldwide at some point after the news broke.
As of the moment, both Luhan and SM have not provided any updates regarding the case.
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