In a recent development, Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon and Red Velvet’s Wendy have announced their non-participation in SM Entertainment’s 30th-anniversary concert, citing company-related issues as the reason for their decision. This revelation could potentially stir controversy.
On the 6th, Taeyeon communicated with her fans via a platform, expressing her disappointment by stating, “I wanted to perform on stage fantastically, and I was eager to prepare two or three songs with the company. However, to sum it up, they didn’t prepare, and I couldn’t participate.”
She clarified, “It’s not that I’m reluctant or don’t want to do it. I am genuinely passionate about performing on stage and want to give my best, but they didn’t support me, so I’m seriously reconsidering. What is going on here?” thereby voicing her dissatisfaction with the company.
Furthermore, addressing her fans, Taeyeon added, “I’m saying this because I don’t want you to misunderstand me.” When a fan speculated that the company might have its reasons, Taeyeon bluntly responded, “They might have forgotten to convey those reasons, which could indeed be awkward.”
The SM Entertainment concert ‘SMTOWN Live 2025 in Seoul’ is scheduled to take place on January 11-12 at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, featuring a wide range of artists from the company. However, alongside Taeyeon, Wendy has also pulled out of the concert. Melon Ticket, the online ticketing platform, announced, “Wendy will not be participating due to personal reasons. We apologize for any inconvenience caused by this change in lineup, and ticket cancellations and refunds can be processed through the customer center without any fees.”
Wendy addressed her fans directly, explaining, “Some of you may have seen the notice, others may not. Discussions with the company took place over a month ago, yet the notice was posted only today. I apologize to those who were eagerly anticipating Red Velvet’s five-member stage. Given it’s the 30th-anniversary concert, various performances are prepared. I hope you have a great time. Thank you always, and I’m sorry.”
This has resulted in speculation about a rift resurfacing between SM Entertainment and its artists.