In a major industry development, EXO‘s D.O. (Doh Kyung-soo) is departing his self-founded agency Company SooSoo following contract expiration this November. The 31-year-old singer-actor, who co-established the boutique label just two years ago, has become one of K-pop’s most coveted free agents, with multiple agencies vying for his signature.
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EXO’s D.O: Termination Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract Status | Expired November 2025 |
| Agency | Company SooSoo |
| Founded | November 2023 |
| Co-founder | Nam Kyung-soo (former SM Entertainment director) |
| D.O.’s Ownership | 50% company shares (retained post-departure) |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Renewal Decision | Mutually decided not to renew |
| Current Tour | “Do It!” Asia tour (ends December 7, 2025) |
Agency’s Official Statement
Company SooSoo confirmed to Star News that Kyung-soo’s contract concluded earlier this month, with both parties agreeing not to pursue renewal. However, the agency will continue managing his ongoing “Do It!” Asia tour through its finale at Korea University’s Hwajeong Gymnasium in Seoul on December 6-7.
What’s Next for D.O.?
Industry insiders report D.O. has received numerous offers from various management agencies, positioning him as one of the most desirable talents in Korean entertainment. His dual prowess as both a chart-topping vocalist and award-winning actor makes him an exceptional asset.
The timing aligns strategically with his tour’s conclusion, allowing seamless transition to a new label. Despite his departure, D.O. retains 50% ownership in Company SooSoo, ensuring continued financial benefits from the venture.
D.O.’s Remarkable Career Journey
Music Career Highlights:
- Debuted with EXO in 2012 under SM Entertainment
- Released three successful EPs: Empathy (2021), Expectation (2022), and Blossom (2024)
- Dropped first studio album Bliss (July 2025) featuring “Sing Along!” with Zico
- Completed “Bloom” tour (2024) and currently wrapping “Do It!” Asia tour
Acting Achievements: His 2016 breakout role in My Annoying Brother earned him the Best New Actor Award at the prestigious Blue Dragon Film Awards. The recognition established him as a serious actor beyond his idol image.
Notable acting projects include:
- It’s Okay, That’s Love (2014)
- 100 Days My Prince (2018)
- Bad Prosecutor (2022) – Won Top Excellence Award at KBS Drama Awards
- Films: Cart, Pure Love, Moon, and more
D.O. was honored as one of 200 actors for The Korean Film Council’s “The Actor is Present” campaign in 2021, cementing his theatrical credibility.
The Company SooSoo Era
D.O. departed SM Entertainment in October 2023 to co-found Company SooSoo with former SM management director Nam Kyung-soo. The boutique agency represented his desire for creative autonomy while maintaining EXO activities under SM Entertainment.
During his two-year tenure, the agency successfully managed:
- Three major solo releases
- Two extensive concert tours
- Multiple variety show appearances
- Acting projects and endorsements
Industry Implications
D.O.’s free agency status sends ripples through K-entertainment. Major agencies recognize his triple-threat capabilities:
- Proven vocal excellence with EXO’s legendary discography
- Award-winning acting chops across films and dramas
- Strong commercial appeal with dedicated fanbase
His next agency choice will significantly impact the competitive landscape of artist management.
For more K-pop updates and entertainment news, visit our K-pop coverage and explore Korean entertainment trends.
What Fans Can Expect
While speculation swirls around potential new labels, D.O. remains focused on delivering outstanding performances during his tour’s final leg. His EXO activities continue unaffected under SM Entertainment, ensuring group projects proceed normally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will D.O. leave EXO after departing Company SooSoo?
No, D.O.’s departure from Company SooSoo doesn’t affect his EXO membership. When he initially left SM Entertainment to establish Company SooSoo in 2023, it was explicitly stated that his group activities would continue under SM Entertainment. His solo activities will simply move to whichever new agency he chooses, while EXO projects remain with SM Entertainment.
Q: Why did D.O. leave the company he co-founded after just two years?
While official reasons weren’t disclosed, industry analysts suggest D.O. may be seeking expanded resources and infrastructure that a larger agency can provide. As a 50% shareholder, he retains financial benefits from Company SooSoo while potentially gaining better support for his dual career as both musician and actor. His status as a highly sought-after free agent indicates he’s evaluating offers that align with his ambitious career goals across music, film, and television.
