EXO’s Comeback Track Hit With Intense Criticism Upon Release

Fans loved it, but netizens had serious issues.

EXO‘s new comeback with the title track “Crown” has been hit with intense criticism from netizens upon the official release.

The members participating in the EXO comeback

Ahead of the comeback, there was a lot of criticism when the teaser for “Crown” was posted.

EXO’s Comeback Flamed For “Trash” Music, “Slop” Music Video, And Lack Of CBX

On January 19, EXO officially made a comeback with the track, releasing the album and full music video for the title track.

Yet, while many fans loved the comeback, it got more criticism from netizens who hit back at the track and video. Like the teaser, many hit back at the use of AI throughout the video and the obvious omission of CBX. Some shared their dislike of the song itself, with some even believing it was a track turned down by NCT.

not that ai generated mv and this song isn’t giving exo at all? excluding cbx literally big mastake like there’s no hope about this group again…. just praying and disbanding.pic.twitter.com/TLZqhUkNJ1 https://t.co/PfU4Na8Ieq

— ✶ (@greedcyo) January 19, 2026

like this tweet if this is literally SOTY (Skip of the year) https://t.co/9NDYygZtyY

— tino (@ilesttino) January 19, 2026

unrelease it https://t.co/c6BdAHDfgq

— bia* (@biayeon_) January 19, 2026

carefully hand picked from the 4th gen reject list….what a downgrade https://t.co/zoabqwQ0aE pic.twitter.com/SsGVbCUq3a

— mavi ⳻⳺ (@mingzaihrs) January 19, 2026

Even NCT skipped this song 😖
omg why did they pick this trash? https://t.co/iNhKl4t3f7

— Briella (@Brieeellaaa) January 19, 2026

Many fans are enjoying the comeback, but it has been plagued with controversy.

EXO