Tensions Rise Ahead of SMTOWN LIVE 2025: Taeyeon Confirms Absence
As anticipation builds for SMTOWN LIVE 2025, the iconic SNSD member Taeyeon has confirmed she will not be participating, hinting at unresolved issues with her label, SM Entertainment.
Event Details
The two-day concert, set to take place on January 11 and 12, will celebrate SM Entertainment’s milestone of 30 years in the industry. Located at the Gocheok City Dome, the event is expected to attract over 25,000 fans.
Star-Studded Lineup Announced
On November 15, SM Entertainment revealed a remarkable lineup featuring artists spanning five generations of K-pop. Artists confirmed to perform include:
- Kangta
- Good
- TVXQ!
- Super Junior
- Girls’ Generation
- SHINee
- EXO
- Red Velvet
- NCT
- WayV
- aespa
- naves
- RIIZE
Taeyeon’s Non-Participation and Communication Issues
Despite being listed as a participant in the concert’s promotional material alongside fellow member Hyoyeon, Taeyeon swiftly made clear her absence. In a recent live stream, she expressed:
“I don’t think I’ll appear in the upcoming SMTOWN concert. Lately, I don’t have good conversations with the label. I am not sure why my name is still included on the poster. I don’t have any idea what their plan is.”
Furthermore, Taeyeon addressed specific concerns regarding her communication with SM, particularly mentioning:
“Why hasn’t SM told me about Weverse Live? SM, are you seeing this? Any SM staff here?”
Fan Reactions and Ongoing Discontent
The reaction from fans, known as SONEs, has been one of disappointment rather than surprise, especially in light of the recent changes management at SM Entertainment as part of the SM 3.0 transition following the departure of founder Lee Soo Man.
This isn’t the first instance of Taeyeon voicing her dissatisfaction with the agency. Over the years, she has publicly criticized their management strategies and security protocols, indicating a growing resentment.
Fan frustrations escalated following Taeyeon’s release of her sixth EP, Letter to Myself, on November 18. Despite positive reviews for the album, many fans were let down by the apparent lack of promotional efforts, with some stating they were unaware of the release altogether.
As this situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how it will impact Taeyeon’s career and her relationship with SM Entertainment.
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