[theqoo] XIUMIN’S SIDE “UNABLE TO APPEAR ON KBS DUE TO SM’S UNFAIR TREATMENT… CAN’T EVEN BE REACHED”

Hello, this is ONE HUNDRED.

We would like to inform you of an important matter regarding our label’s artist’s appearances on KBS programs.

Xiumin, an artist under INB100, is set to release his solo album “Interview X” on March 10, marking his first solo comeback in two years and six months.

As this is a long-awaited solo comeback, our team made continuous efforts to arrange meetings with various broadcasting stations so that Xiumin could showcase a great performance to his fans. However, KBS remained unresponsive and did not return our attempts to make contact.

Recently, we were unofficially informed by KBS that it would be impossible for Xiumin to appear on [KBS] programs that feature SM Entertainment artists, including KBS2’s “Music Bank.”

This reasoning was difficult to understand, but even until today, we have continuously attempted to communicate with KBS to urge them to prioritize the artist and their fans. Unfortunately, our attempts were ignored.

We believe this situation reflects a case where a public broadcasting station is blocking an artist’s meeting with fans—not due to musical or any other [reasonable] factors, but based on its dealings with a specific entertainment company.

If this kind of unfair treatment continues, our artists will be placed in a situation where they cannot promote on music shows whenever SM Entertainment artists have ongoing album promotions.

We find it deeply unjust that KBS, a public broadcasting company, has made this decision based solely on one company’s stance. Despite our utmost efforts to resolve this matter, we regret having to deliver such disappointing news to the fans.

Regarding KBS, which has not only hindered Xiumin’s appearance but has also made it difficult for other artists to appear on “Music Bank,” our company will continue striving for fairness and will do our best to prevent artists from being disadvantaged by such unfair practices.

Although Xiumin’s KBS appearance is currently impossible, we will not give up for the sake of our artists and fans. Furthermore, we promise to create even better opportunities for Xiumin to showcase his performances and make meaningful memories with fans through alternative events.

Once again, we sincerely apologize for disappointing both our artist and fans. We will continue striving to rectify unjust industry practices and remain a company that truly prioritizes its artists.

Thank you.

Cr. Soompi