This is an EXO-CBX appreciation post.

A brief break from our usual programming to shoutout EXO-CBX for standing up to unjust treatment. I can’t imagine how terrifying it must have been and must still be in their shoes, publicly going up against such a massive corporation that has heretofore controlled their careers…but I know their members have their backs on this, and hopefully this will set a precedent to help others in the industry.

I became a fan of EXO in the summer of 2014, which was, to put it simply, a very uncertain and strange time to become a fan of the group. Seeing the information about the lawsuit has caused me to think back to my initial impressions of them, and what a journey it has been with them over the years. This is an EXO-CBX appreciation post.

Xiumin was one of the first members I remember noticing during different performances and shows. Sure, he was uniquely adorable (protect the hamster), but I was more surprised by the kind of understated maturity he radiated within his cuteness; he would be playful and mess around with the others, but there was always this quiet calm he had in the midst of EXO chaos. It’s a tough job, being the eldest, needing to balance different roles. He’s always been a bit more in the background—happy to support and add on, rather than take center stage, and you can tell how his members appreciate him.

What a rock Jongdae has been. It’s amazing how consistent he is, how loyal and supportive he has continued to be in tough times. It’s telling when every member of a group agrees that this is the kindest person around, a vocal powerhouse who’s gotten such rough treatment over the years for falling in love and having kids. Through it all, Jongdae has stayed gentle and steady. Every member brings something so necessary to the group, but I think of Jongdae as being, in some respects, the soul of the group.

And then there's Baekhyun—a clever mischief-maker, the apotheosis of beagle-line chaos, our sweet songbird. From the start, I’ve been torn between fond exasperation and bewilderment watching his variety show antics, because it’s impossible not to smile at this funny little brother’s actions. As someone whose personality probably more closely resembles Suho’s, I deeply appreciate friends who don’t let me take myself too seriously or get stuck in ideas of perfectionism, and I see lightening everyone up as part of Baekhyun's charm. No matter how much Baekhyun (and squad) tease their leader, there’s such love that runs underneath in the inside jokes and affectionate roasts. Baekhyun is known as a prankster and joker, but within that he looks after his people. Even after all he’s gone through for having a personal life, he really maintains that joy and warmth.

I know it's important not to put celebrities on a pedestal--everyone is human. This post isn't saying these men are perfect angelic robots, just that from everything I've seen in following this group for nearly ten years, I have faith in them to stick together and overcome whatever faces them; and I know from the outpouring of support that EXO-L will cheer them on the whole way.

We are one, and always OT9. Let's love<3