In the world of K-pop, where fan loyalty runs deep and anticipation for new releases can reach fever pitch, the sudden dissolution of a beloved group can send shockwaves through the community.
Such is the case with XEED, a South Korean boy band that has garnered a dedicated following since their debut in 2022 under the banner of Nature Space Entertainment.
Rapid Rise and Unforeseen Departures
XEED’s journey began with promise and enthusiasm. Comprising members DOHA, SHUN, BAO, JAEMIN, and UO, the group burst onto the scene with their debut mini-album “Dream Land”after a successful crowdfunding campaign on Rising Star.
Despite initial traction and a growing fanbase, XEED faced an early setback when vocalist RONI departed from the group citing “personal reasons”mere weeks after their debut. The abrupt departure left fans bewildered and concerned, particularly as online traces of RONI were swiftly erased.
XEED The 1st Mini Album ‘Dream Land’ 발매기념 대면&영상통화 팬사인회온세상 멋짐 다 어디갔나 했더니 씨드한테 가있었네🫣♥️🗓2022.12.10 SAT#Kstageshop#XEED #씨드 pic.twitter.com/Elmc0rGprE
— K-stage shop (케이스테이지샵) (@K_stage_shop) December 10, 2022
A Rollercoaster of Events
In response to RONI’s exit, former members of other K-pop groups, SHUN and UO, were swiftly incorporated into XEED, offering a glimmer of hope to fans still reeling from the loss.
Hello, This is Nature Space Entertainment.
RONI, who has worked together as a member of XEED, will leave the group and cancel his exclusive contract with our company due to personal reasons. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused to the fans by the disappointing news.
As a result, XEED will continue the rest of their officially scheduled activities will continue as a 3 member team. The 3 members will continue to grow and mature, so we ask for everyone’s many support.
Once again, we sincerely apologize to the fans for the sudden announcement. Thank you.
– Nature Space Entertainment via @xeed__official/Instagram
Not me watching Roni’s posts be deleted one by one again in real time. Please just tell us what’s going on I don’t need this kind of drama in my life 😭🥹💔🌱 #xeed pic.twitter.com/RSaeoc66q2
— KC – I HIGH FIVED SEONGHWA (@KCsKpopLyfe) January 17, 2023
The way they deleted everything related to Roni like he just didn’t exist in the first place is fucking FOUL. He literally practiced so hard for them just to pretend like he doesn’t exist at all??? Fucking FOUL bro. #xeed
— ᴶᵃⁿᵉˡˡᵉ misses Vanner 🫧 (@jaehwanismm) January 17, 2023
Conflicting Narratives and Discontent Among Fans
The announcement of XEED’s disbandment has sparked a wave of disappointment and confusion among fans, exacerbated by what some perceive as conflicting narratives between the entertainment company and the members themselves.
Dear Greeny,Sharing this with a very sad heart…I’m so sorry… An official announcement has been released from Nature Space that Xeed’s activities will be terminated effective April 8th. Sending everyone also affected by this news the biggest telepathic hug and keeping…
— Xeedland (@xeedland) March 22, 2024
While Nature Space Entertainment stated that the decision was reached after discussions with the members, fan observations suggest a different reality.
Bubble messages from BAO and SHUN following the announcement appeared to convey shock, contradicting the company’s claims of a mutual agreement.
Adding to the intrigue, the lack of an official announcement on XEED’s social media platforms has only fueled fans’ discontent, leaving them to seek clarity and closure through unofficial channels.
!!! https://t.co/rrRUbYHBlR pic.twitter.com/fYEGHqc8Xh
— Bao Updates 🐱 (@MyLoveBao) March 22, 2024
— Bao Updates 🐱 (@MyLoveBao) March 22, 2024
The impending closure of the members’ bubble accounts, coupled with assurances of continued camaraderie, offers a bittersweet consolation to fans grappling with the imminent end of XEED’s journey.
A Tale of Unanswered Questions and Lingering Heartache
Fans navigate the aftermath of XEED’s disbandment, one sentiment rings clear: a longing for closure and a yearning for transparency from Nature Space Entertainment.
How come you only posted such an important notice on fancafe? No updates on any of 4! X accounts, IG? Are you trying to downplay the damage you caused to the fans? At least be honest and transparent with people, who pay your salaries.@Naturespace_ent @XEED_staff
— lielie 🌱☁️ (@octoberlie) March 22, 2024
With lingering questions and shattered expectations, the dissolution of XEED serves as a sobering reminder of the precarious nature of fame and fandom in the world of K-pop.
xeed deserved more and better. you create an extremely talented group with adults as a main concept, one member leaves within the first 3 months, add more member, give them one cb, then they disband. i hate you nature space
— 김종현 is my universe✨ rt 📌 (@pancakeash27) March 22, 2024
my heart is really breaking for xeed. every single member has been working so hard for so many years, group after group company after company just for them to end up with nature space who has no consideration for their passion and their dreams
— eli ♡ (@cloudyooni) March 22, 2024
Nature Space is such a shit company. What do you mean XEED didn’t even know they were disbanding?? Bao and Shun were confused about the announcement. This makes me even more upset.
— 🥀𝓙𝓪zz🥀tbz 💌 (@sunwoos_smize) March 22, 2024
Yet, amidst the disappointment and uncertainty, the enduring bond between fans and idols remains steadfast, serving as a beacon of hope for the future, whatever it may hold.