It was revealed that EXO's Chinese member Lay did not attend the fan meeting. On the 14th, the agency SM Entertainment announced through the fan community Weverse, "Due to unavoidable circumstances, member Lay was unable to attend the fan meeting." They added, "Suho, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, and Sehun are scheduled to participate as planned."

EXO held the fan meeting "EXO'rdium" twice that day at 2 PM and 7 PM at the Inspire Arena in Incheon. All members except Lay took the stage as scheduled. The news of Lay's absence was suddenly conveyed to fans, who expressed curiosity about the reason.

Lay stated on the Chinese SNS Weibo that afternoon, "I hurried back to Beijing to attend an important event at the National Centre for the Performing Arts." He added, "I sincerely apologize to the fans, team members, the agency, and everyone who was inconvenienced by my absence." The National Centre for the Performing Arts is an institution under the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and it was confirmed that Lay urgently left the country to attend this event.

EXO's fan meeting was held for the first time in about 1 year and 8 months, and Lay's participation had attracted much attention. However, Lay suddenly announced his absence on the morning of the fan meeting, causing concern among fans. It is known that Lay participated in practice and rehearsal for the fan meeting.

Various speculations have been raised about the background of Lay's departure. Some suggest that the recent deterioration in relations between China and Japan influenced this. There is an analysis that as the Chinese government intensifies the "Hanil Order," which restricts cultural exchanges with Japan, it might also be discouraging its entertainers from activities in Korea.

Lay, who missed the fan meeting, said on Weibo, "I returned to Beijing this morning to participate in an important event at the China National Centre for the Performing Arts," and added, "I have safely arrived in Beijing, so please rest assured." He apologized to fans and team members and sincerely apologized to all parties who were inconvenienced by his absence.

This EXO fan meeting was an important occasion for communication with fans, and Lay's absence left fans greatly disappointed. The agency asked for fans' understanding regarding the sudden change in members and informed that the remaining members would proceed with the fan meeting as planned.

This incident has further increased fans' interest in EXO's activities, and discussions about Lay's future activities are expected to be active. Fans are wishing for Lay's health and safety and are voicing hopes that he will rejoin the team.