A media tabloid in China, SOHU, has released negative paparazzi shots of EXO's Tao, and SM Entertainment has stepped up and stated that they will "respond aggressively."

On October 14, SM Entertainment stated that a video of Tao saying goodbye to his friend was reported wrong and reflected negatively. In the Chinese report, it was suggested that the unnamed woman was the pop star's girlfriend.

In addition, SM stated, "We will also respond aggressively for any additional rumors and exaggerated news coverages regarding this issue."

Recently, the Chinese tabloid revealed a video of Tao being accompanied by others on the street, and made wild assumptions about the nature of his relationship with one of the female companions.