EXO found itself at the center of controversy following the release of the teaser for “Crown,” the title track of their highly anticipated comeback album REVERSE. While the teaser initially attracted enormous attention from K-pop fans eager for the group’s return as a six-member lineup, the excitement quickly gave way to a wave of disappointment and criticism online.
Shortly after the teaser was released, negative reactions spread across social media platforms and online communities. Much of the criticism focused on the song itself. Many listeners have heard this “Crown” lacked the signature sound long associated with EXO, describing the melody and production as unfamiliar, attenuated or even generic. This led some fans to wonder whether the group was moving away from the musical identity that once cemented their status as one of K-pop’s top artists.
The teaser images have also become a point of contention. Some scenes sparked speculation about the possible use of artificial intelligence, with viewers commenting that the images looked like excessively artificial and lacking in realism. Critics argued that if AI had actually been used, it would have detracted from the emotional depth and artistic quality expected from a product marking EXO’s return.
In hindsight, the backlash didn’t come completely out of nowhere. When SM Entertainment first announced EXO’s return in late November, concerns had already surfaced regarding the absence of Baekhyun, Chen and Xiumin (CBX). The incomplete lineup fueled heated debates among fans and the release of the “Crown” the teaser in this context seemed to intensify lingering frustrations.
Many netizens expressed the feeling EXO currently has “incomplete”, arguing that the absence of CBX significantly decreases the group’s vocal color and overall depth. Combined with the controversial musical direction and questions surrounding the teaser images, disappointment among a segment of the public continued to grow.
That said, the answer is based solely on a short teaser. If the full release of REVERSE will it change public perception or further validate current concerns remains to be seen. As anticipation grows, fans and critics alike are watching closely to see whether EXO’s official return can turn skepticism into renewed support or whether the controversy will persist.
