Is Chen of EXO Still a K-pop Idol?

Chen, a member of the legendary K-pop group EXO, continues to hold a dear place in the hearts of many fans despite the challenges he has faced. While his place in the group remains uncertain due to his mandatory military service, Chen's career as a K-pop idol has shown remarkable resilience and determination despite the obstacles he has encountered.

Chen and EXO's Journey

Chen, who first joined EXO in its early years, has been an integral part of the group since 2012. Known for his versatile talents, Chen has been a fan favorite for many years, contributing to the success of EXO both in performances and through his solo activities. However, a significant event occurred in 2020 that transformed the narrative around Chen and his place in EXO.

The Demands for His Withdrawal

In January 2020, Chen announced his marriage to Kyungsoo, who was pregnant at the time. The news quickly spread, and some passionate fans, known as "exo-ls," demanded that Sim Audit Entertainment, the agency that manages EXO, remove Chen from the group. The justification for these demands was rooted in the privacy concerns surrounding personal matters and the traditional emphasis on image within the celebrity industry.

Despite the immense pressure, ExO continued to support Chen, highlighting the importance of privacy and the complexity of personal lives in public figures' careers. It was evident that the decision to leave the group or not was not an easy one, reflecting the broader complexities in the entertainment industry.

Chen's Continuous Presence in K-pop

While Chen was actively involved in his mandatory military service, his absence did not completely silence the ears of his dedicated fans. In September 2020, Chen released a solo OST titled "Your Moonlight," a song that showcased his continuation as an artist, even in the absence of his group. This release brought a fresh stream of music to fans, proving that his talent and passion for music remained undiminished.

On October 15 of the same year, Chen delivered another surprise by releasing a new song titled "Hello." This birthday present to his fans came as a pleasant surprise, demonstrating that despite his absences, Chen remained a significant figure in K-pop. The song served as a testament to his enduring commitment to his craft.

Enlistment and Future in K-pop

On October 26, 2021, Jongdae, another EXO member, announced his enlistment to the military. This move highlighted the ongoing importance of military service in Korea, even for members of prominent K-pop groups. Jongdae, along with Chen, was due to complete his service by the 26th of April 2022, marking the end of a significant period of his life.

The combination of military service and personal life challenges has tested Chen's role as an EXO member. However, his ability to continue releasing music and engaging with fans through various means underscores the strong bond between Chen and his dedicated "exo-ls." This continued engagement signifies that his importance as a K-pop idol has remained unchanged, regardless of the circumstances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, despite the various challenges Chen has faced, including personal and professional constraints, his status as a K-pop idol remains intact. His dedication to his art and his fans has allowed him to maintain a positive presence in the industry. As he completes his service, Chen and EXO fans look forward to a bright future filled with new music and performances.