EXO members Chen and Chanyeol recently experienced an unfortunate situation at the "EXO' CLOCK" fan event. The two singers were greeted with silence during their appearances, sparking support from international fans. This article will explore the background of the event, the reasons behind the silent treatment, and the reactions from fans.
The "EXO' CLOCK" Fan Event
The 2023 EXO FANMEETING EXO'CLOCK celebrated the group's 11th debut anniversary. It's also the first time EXO has reunited since the release of their 2015 repackaged album. As the event approached, the group shared puzzles and video clips to build the fans' excitement.
Read also: EXO Performs THIS 'Timeless' Hit - And Eris Are Raving About It: 'This song will never get old'
2023 EXO FANMEETING “EXO’ CLOCK” SUHO PUZZLE PIECE 🧩
— EXO (@weareoneEXO) March 29, 2023
EXO-L에게 전하는 🐰SUHO의 PUZZLE MESSAGE
오는 4월 8일, 9일 EXO’ CLOCK에 만나요 🕰#EXO #엑소 #2023_EXO_FANMEETING_EXO_CLOCK #FANMEETING #비욘드라이브 pic.twitter.com/UWjOcbPomm
However, on the day of the fan meeting, something marred the otherwise joyful occasion. Chen and Chanyeol were met with silence during the opening VCR, with only a few voices attempting to compensate for the lack of cheering.
opening vcrhttps://t.co/VbaZEA2ydu
— the exo source (@theexosource) April 8, 2023
Why Were Chen and Chanyeol Given the Silent Treatment?
Chen and Chanyeol have both experienced significant backlash from fans in recent years. Chanyeol faced allegations of infidelity during his three-year relationship with an ex-girlfriend. The accusations implicated a variety of women, such as girl group members, YouTubers, and flight attendants.
Chen, on the other hand, received criticism after announcing his marriage to his pregnant fiancé in 2019, prompting some fans to demand he leave the group.
International Fans Show Support
Despite the hostility from local fans, international supporters have been quite outspoken in their backing of both Chen and Chanyeol. Following the fan event, international fans used social media platforms to demonstrate their support for the two artists while expressing disappointment at the conduct of some attendees.
BRING EXO’s FANMEETING OUTSIDE KOREA !!!
— klau (@kokokbop) April 8, 2023
Yes, we will scream for ALL of them!!!! Chen, we are with you, forever 💪🏻
— OLJ (@OlgaLJ1) April 8, 2023
BRING EXO’s FANMEETING OUTSIDE KOREA !!!
— klau (@kokokbop) April 8, 2023
international exols, it’s our time tomorrow! 😭 only if we could cheer and scream for jongdae and chanyeol too just to shower them with love. ☹️
— sel (@exo_bvsly) April 8, 2023
pic.twitter.com/RUu6t0o8Gp
Y’all K-EXOLs who didn’t even cheer for CHANYEOL and CHEN, y’all don’t deserve EXO! https://t.co/RnHVXI4Dfh
— 𝙲𝚕𝚊𝚒𝚛𝚎♡ 🍒 (@dclaireee29) April 8, 2023
Divided Opinions on Chen's Marriage Announcement
Chen's marriage announcement in 2019 left fans divided, with some demanding he leave EXO while others showing unwavering support. Approximately 30 fans protested near SM TOWN Coex Artium in Seoul, holding banners reading "Chen Out" and demanding an apology from the singer. However, many loyal fans took to Twitter using hashtags like #Chen_Stays and #MyAnswerIsEXO9 to show their support for Chen's happiness and continued presence in the group.
Chanyeol's Cheating Allegations
Chanyeol's purported infidelity was revealed in an online community post, which accused him of cheating on his ex-girlfriend with more than 10 women throughout their relationship. The post featured photos alleged to have been taken with Chanyeol.
Observers identified similarities between the background of the photos and Chanyeol's residence, as well as the beanie worn by the man in the images, which is recognized as one of Chanyeol's favorite accessories.
The silent treatment given to Chen and Chanyeol at the "EXO' CLOCK" fan event appears to have been fueled by past controversies surrounding their personal lives.
Despite the negative reactions from some fans, international supporters continue to rally behind the two singers, emphasizing their belief in their right to happiness and support within the group.