One of the worst things that can happen to a performer is an injury that prevents them from being able to perform.

These days however, artists are granted the luxury of still being able to work without aggravating their injuries through endorsements and regular appearances.

EXO's Tao seems to be one of those artists as he has grabbed yet another endorsement while still on break from his activities with EXO. After an endorsement from a Chinese mobile game, Tao is set to be the new face of the Bugles snack brand. The endorsement comes at a somewhat controversial time, as Tao's contract with SM Entertainment (and his membership with group EXO) is still being negotiated.

A few weeks ago, SM Entertainment released a statement clarifying the situation around Tao's inclusion in EXO.

"It cannot be confirmed whether Tao is staying or leaving. Negotiations are still ongoing," said the SM Entertainment Representative (via Koreaboo).

While some have been critical of SM Entertainment artists who continue their activities in China, Tao's position seems to be even trickier because of the ongoing negotiations. One might recall that SM Entertainment has filed lawsuits against ex-members Kris and Luhan for continuing their activities while still technically under contract.

Regardless of the legal terms, for those fans who are still supportive of Tao during his absence from EXO, it is probably good to see him still remaining active. Tao was reported to have recently sought treatment for an increasingly worsening leg injury in Los Angeles.  Perhaps his recent appearances are signs of a successful recovery.

While Tao remains absent from EXO's activities, the group continues to promote their recent album repackage title track, "Love Me Right."