MC Mong Criticizes SM Entertainment Over Alleged Interference in Xiumin Music Bank Appearance
On March 5, 2025, MC Mong (real name Shin Dong Hyun), co-founder of One Hundred Label and its subsidiary INB100, publicly criticized SM Entertainment on social media. The controversy stems from allegations that SM Entertainment exerted influence to block EXO’s Xiumin from appearing on KBS’s Music Bank for his solo comeback.
MC Mong’s Allegations
In a lengthy post shared on his social media, MC Mong accused SM Entertainment of unethical practices and directly targeted the company’s leadership. He referenced past incidents and claimed to have evidence, including recordings, to support his accusations.
MC Mong wrote:
“Do you remember when you came to my house to apologize? You’re all stuck on your little island, committing savage and violent acts. As adults, this is shameful. Someone with no experience in music is leading A&R, and an ignorant manager is running the company recklessly. Your greed has crossed the line.”
He further alleged that SM Entertainment’s actions were worse than school bullying and threatened to release recordings as evidence:
“I have proof, including recordings. Should I release them? I’m still thinking about it.”
He also criticized SM Entertainment for allegedly failing to provide proper financial statements to its artists:
“Even in 2025, you can’t provide a proper financial statement. How pathetic.”
Background of the Controversy
The issue began when INB100, Xiumin’s current agency, claimed that KBS had unofficially informed them that Xiumin could not appear on Music Bank or other programs featuring SM Entertainment artists. The agency alleged that SM Entertainment’s influence over KBS created an unfair disadvantage for non-SM artists promoting during the same period.
KBS has since denied these allegations, calling them “groundless” and stating that there are no restrictions on Xiumin’s participation in their programs. Despite this, the controversy has sparked widespread debate within the entertainment industry about fairness and corporate influence in broadcasting decisions.
Xiumin’s Solo Comeback
Xiumin is set to release his solo album Interview X on March 10, marking his first solo comeback in over two years. The album has generated significant anticipation among fans, but the ongoing controversy has overshadowed his promotional activities.
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