Originally debuting as EXO in Korea, both Lay and Tao later pursued respective solo careers in China. But despite being top stars, why are they treated differently?

Tao 'Flopped' vs Lay 'Sold Out': Idols Hold Concerts on Same Day But Earn Different Results

In online communities, the recent status of EXO Lay and C-pop star Tao garnered netizens' and fans' attention.

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Both debuted in 2012 and worked together for the sub-unit, EXO-M. However, in 2015, Tao left the group and his company after filing a contract lawsuit against SM Entertainment.

On the other hand, Lay remained at SM until the expiration of his exclusive contract in 2022. Despite this, he confirmed that he's still an EXO member although he is not actively participating in the group activities.

After going back to China to pursue their solo endeavors, people expected that both would retain their stellar careers.

However, the difference in the treatment that they got in China stood out after Lay and Tao held a concert on the same day on November 18.

Starting with Lay, his concert, "Grandline: Boundless," in Chengdu was successfully held, selling out all seats. He received a lot of support from Xbacks and EXO-Ls, and in return, Lay showed his appreciation by giving them souvenir gifts.

Tao, who released his new single "30's Club" on November 1, and held two concerts in Guangzhou, met an unfortunate result after he canceled the second concert due to poor health.

However, this caused suspicions after an insider source explained that the cancellation was due to the concert reservation rate, which was lower than expected. Thus, it was not possible to proceed with the second concert.

Looking at this, Tao drastically lowered the ticket price from 368 yuan (about 66,400 won/USD 51.27) to 47.84 yuan (about 8,300 won/USD 6.41), but all tickets were not sold until the day before the concert took place.

Tao Cancelled Due to Dating Scandal? Media Speculates Reason Idol's Fame Is Decreasing

Although Lay and Tao are both loved, analysts and news outlets stated that there is a reason the latter is receiving different treatment in China, contrary to Lay.

While Lay often declares affection and love for his fans, Tao openly hinted at his relationship with his rumored girlfriend Xu Yi Yang.

Since 2020, he has been embroiled in dating rumors with the former SM Entertainment trainee, who almost debuted in aespa.

The speculations arose after the alleged couple were often photographed dining out and entering the same house, sparking claims that they live together.

In October, Tao also publicly confessed admiration for Yi Yang at a nightclub in Gangnam. On a large screen, the idol wrote "Love y Yi YANG," which immediately spread to various online communities.

Tao's romantic relationship rumors, which have been raised in succession recently, may have had a big impact on the departure of his fandom members, said to the media.

READ MORE: Former EXO Tao Getting Married? Rumor Arises After Being Spotted Doing THESE

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Written by Eunice Dawson.