EXO returns atop music chart with 'Exist'

"Exist," boy band EXO's first new album in almost five years is seeing noticeable results both in Korea and abroad. "Exist" also sold over a million copies on the first day of its release, according to Korean music tracker Hanteo Chart on Tuesday ...

Boy band EXO [SM ENTERTAINMENT]

"Exist," boy band EXO's first new album in almost five years, with all eight members, is seeing noticeable results both in Korea and abroad.

"Exist" also sold over a million copies on the first day of its release, according to Korean music tracker Hanteo Chart on Tuesday, making it EXO's most-sold album ever on the first day of its release.

Selling over a million copies is also an impressive feat for EXO, as an 11-year-old veteran boy band.

The album also landed atop on iTunes Top Albums chart in 66 different regions on the day of its release on Monday, including in Japan, France, Germany, Singapore and more.

"Exist" is earning positive reception in China as well, topping local music streaming service QQ Music's album sales chart.

Its lead track, "Cream Soda," is an addictive pop dance score that features unique rhythms and instruments such as brass, piano and drums, EXO's agency SM Entertainment said.

"Exist" will likely be member Sehun's last album before he starts his mandatory military service this year. Member Kai, who began his social service in May, participated in the album production but will not participate in the album promotion, according to SM Entertainment.

The eight members of EXO include Xiumin, Suho, Baekhyun, Chen, Chanyeol, D.O, Kai and Sehun. While Rei did not leave the band, he did not participate in most of EXO's albums and group activities since 2017 and left SM Entertainment in April 2022.

To find out more about EXO, visit Celeb Confirmed!

BY CHO YONG-JUN [cho.yongjun1@joongang.co.kr]