EXO’s D.O. Is Parting Ways with SM Entertainment After 13 Years
The vocalist and actor will be setting up his own company with a trusted director from SM Entertainment.
The rumours are true – D.O. is leaving SM Entertainment after 13 long years with the music label. The Rose singer from top K-pop boy group EXO has come to the end of his exclusive contract with the agency. One of the largest and longest-standing entertainment agencies in Korea, SM Entertainment recently published an official statement confirming the artist’s departure.
In the statement, SM stated that D.O. (whose real name is Do Kyung-soo) would reach the end of his exclusive contract with the company in early November. But EXO-Ls have nothing to worry about – D.O. will remain with SM, for group promotions with EXO. Over the last 11 years of their career, EXO has released major hits like "Love Shot", "Cream Soda" and "Call Me Baby". D.O. is known in EXO for his vocal agility and is one of the group’s main vocalists.
EXO-Ls may wonder where his solo career will stand, since D.O. just released Expectation, his second mini album as a solo artist in mid-September. For solo and acting activities, the label’s statement also confirmed that D.O. will be setting up his own agency with a managing director from SM. The managing director is reportedly a trusted advisor who has worked with D.O. since his debut days. While many details about D.O.’s new agency are still unknown at this point, one thing is for certain: this isn’t the last we’re seeing of him.
Beyond his role in EXO, D.O. has also made a name for himself as a celebrated idol-turned-actor. He has starred in films such as My Annoying Brother and The Moon. Within the K-drama sphere, D.O. also took on major acting roles in Bad Prosecutor and 100 Days My Prince.
