Inclusion Of Tao In EXO Paper Toys Displeases Chinese Netizens

Jun 19, 2015 09:22 AM EDT

(Photo : Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images) SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - MAY 24: South Korean idol group EXO attend the Calvin Klein Collection Hosts a special one-night exhibition entitled 'Infinite Loop' organized by the New Museum of Contemporary Art at the Seoul Railway Station on May 24, 2012 in Seoul, South Korea.

The announcement of EXO paper toys has generated some controversy, as it includes Chinese member Tao whose status as an EXO member is no longer clear. It has triggered a virtual war between loyal EXO fans and Tao fans, and SM Management has come under criticism from Chinese Netizens for including Tao in the latest EXO merchandise.

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"You [SM Entertainment] didn't even post about Tao's activities and news when he was in the group. Now that he is not in the group, please continue your previous style and don't mention him," Korea Boo has quoted one of Tao fans as saying. Another fan was begging to let Tao go. Someone suggested that they start a petition to stop SM Entertainment from releasing merchandise which includes Tao.

The EXO paper toys feature four inner sheets, a case, stickers, and concept paper, and each member will have his own theme. Korea Boo reported that there are props and a "cool" background with the toys. The fans can buy them for USD $13.59.

Tao has not been participating actively with the group since April. Chinese-Korean idol group EXO is promoting its repackaged second album "Love Me Right" without Tao, and he did not participate in the recording of the four new songs for the album as well. Moreover, he not only has signed two solo endorsement deals but also has set up a one-man studio in China to promote his solo activities. All these developments have made a lot of EXO fans speculate that Tao plans to leave the group.

The Paper Toy merchandise, however, indicates that SM Management is hopeful that Tao will not leave the group like Luhan and Kris. But they have yet to confirm that as they continue to negotiate with Tao and his father.

EXO's nine members are busy promoting "Love Me Right." The latest news is that EXO has again won the first spot on KBS "Music Bank" this week. It beat BIGBANG by receiving 8,084 hits. EXO members are now in Thailand for their concerts that are scheduled to be held on June 20 and 21. They earlier held concerts in Taiwan.

TagsTao, EXO member, Chinese member Tao, TAO Paper Toys, EXO Paper Toys, SM Entertainment