EXO's Comeback and Lay's Instagram Presence Amidst Group Activities

EXO's highly anticipated 8th full album 'REVERXE' and accompanying fan meeting 'EXO'verse' are generating significant buzz in Korea, marking the group's activities for 2026. A key talking point, however, is member Lay's absence from the fan meeting, which was announced on the day of the event due to a prior engagement in China. This situation has drawn considerable attention from fans and the media.

The 8th album 'REVERXE' features nine tracks, including the winter song 'I'm Home', and began pre-orders on December 15th. The 'EXO'verse' fan meeting showcased the live premiere of 'I'm Home' and an "all-time best" setlist, with EXO expressing gratitude to their fans. Lay, whose real name is Zhang Yixing, was born on October 7, 1991, and is known as EXO's main dancer and sub-vocalist. While he maintains a cooperative relationship with SM Entertainment for Korean activities, he primarily manages his solo and Chinese endeavors through Zhang Yixing Studio.

Local bloggers noted the mixed reactions among fans, who expressed both excitement for EXO's comeback and disappointment over Lay's unexpected absence from the fan meeting. Despite his separate activities, Lay's continued connection with his fanbase is evident, with many fans actively sharing his personal Instagram photos for use as phone wallpapers, reflecting his enduring popularity and the affection he receives.