EXO-M leader Kris’ mother has reportedly contacted Chinese entertainment agency YUEHUA, seeking consultation about the idol’s future.
“Kris’ mother came to our office to discuss her son’s future, but nothing has been decided,” a source familiar with the matter told local media outlet Sports World.
As the legal battle between Kris and SM Entertainment is at an early stage, the agency cautiously confirmed the fact, according to the news report.
YUEHUA is the biggest entertainment powerhouse in China and manages a host of top Chinese stars including Hangeng, a former member of K-pop boy band Super Junior.
The recent move of Kris’ mother may hint that Kris is considering following in Hangeng’s footsteps to continue activities based in China.
Hangeng, once managed by SM Entertainment, filed a lawsuit in late 2009, claiming his contract was unfair. After he won the first trial, the agency agreed to nullify his contract.
The former idol‘s impressive performance in China might have inspired Kris to take legal action. Hangeng is now a top-tier actor and singer in China, reportedly earning more than he did with Super Junior.
The claims are backed by the fact that Cho Beom-seok of Hankyul Law Group, who formerly represented Hangeng against SM Entertainment, took Kris’ case this time.
Two weeks have passed since Kris sued the nation‘s largest talent agency to end his contract, accusing it of exploitation and unfair treatment, but there has been no sign of compromise between the two parties.
Kris has been silent about his decision to leave EXO since he last updated his Weibo on May 16 to express gratitude for his fans’ support. Kris’ whereabouts are still unclear.
By Ock Hyun-ju (laeticia.ock@heraldcorp.com)