SHINee’s 30th Anniversary Album Announcement Sparks Controversy
On January 14, SM Entertainment revealed the roster for its upcoming album celebrating the label’s 30th anniversary, scheduled for release next month. Interestingly, among the groups still active since the label’s inception in 1995, only the boy band SHINee will be absent from the project.
Speculation Surrounds Taemin’s Participation
This announcement prompted immediate speculation regarding potential conflicts involving Taemin, one of SHINee’s members. It has been suggested that BPM Entertainment, which manages Taemin’s solo career, is the reason behind his non-involvement with the group’s activities.
The controversy ignited when the CEO of Griffin, Onew’s newly established label, hinted at issues between companies through an Instagram Story. He alluded to obstacles restricting SHINee from fully engaging as a group, despite enthusiasm from Onew for them to reunite.
From one of Griffin CEO’s deleted Instagram story, he made it clear he is not talking about SM pic.twitter.com/eM1C0IolpV
— Taylor🫐🕯️ (@xoalstay) January 14, 2025
Fan Reactions and Accusations
The situation escalated as SHINee’s dedicated fan base, known as Shawols, took to online platforms like theqoo to express discontent with the perception that Taemin’s commitments to his group were being disregarded in favor of his solo endeavors. Some fans alleged that BPM was directly responsible for curtailing Taemin’s opportunities to engage with SHINee.
Additionally, the backlash against Taemin intensified, with critics accusing him of prioritizing his solo career over the group’s activities.
BPM Entertainment Responds to Allegations
On January 15, BPM Entertainment issued an official statement refuting claims against both the label and Taemin. They emphasized their ongoing support for SHINee and acknowledged Taemin’s commitment to the group.
Hello. This is Big Planet Made. pic.twitter.com/yLYQUoj2x
— TAEMIN (@TAEMIN_BPM) January 15, 2025
In their response, BPM stated: “We have always supported and cheered on SHINee’s activities, which Taemin has great affection for. At the same time, we are not sparing any effort in providing full support so that the artist can receive fair treatment and continue to promote their activities.”
They further assured fans that they would actively back Taemin in both his solo and group activities, stating their commitment to his growth as an artist. BPM also warned against malicious comments, indicating possible legal actions against those involved.
Support for Onew and Griffin’s CEO Amidst Controversy
Amidst the rising tensions, some Shawols defended the Griffin CEO and Onew, arguing that criticisms targeted at them were unfounded. They asserted that the comments shared in the online forum misrepresented what the CEO truly communicated.
As Griffin CEO was worried about us editing what he said, I translated all of his comments. This was a live chat room for Onew’s new release, and the Griffin CEO joined and chatted with Onew’s fans. It’s up to you whether you choose to believe the members or the Griffin CEO https://t.co/47Jw6iU1KB pic.twitter.com/2R0QfmcJ1F
— Taylor🫐🕯️ (@xoalstay) January 14, 2025
Full part of Jang CEO chatㅡ so you guys don’t make a fuss over partly edited chat. Pls go through it carefully as it’s a long message and it might content some inaccuracies as I’m not a native speaker and open to discussion for the error. Everyone is a winner!! Raise your head… https://t.co/OAsigOmdh
— far🍀 (@parixxe_) January 14, 2025
As the situation unfolds, fans remain divided, navigating their loyalty between the groups and individuals involved. This unfolding drama certainly adds an unexpected twist to the celebration of SHINee’s milestone anniversary.
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