'EXO Next Door' Comforts Fans Amidst Tao Departure Rumors

On April 21, fans of EXO demonstrated their support for the first song which was released from the "EXO Next Door" original soundtrack. Baekhyun delivered a stirring performance on "Beautiful," marking his first solo original soundtrack (OST) appearance. Fans took to Twitter to trend #Baekhyun1stOST, which was a positive show of support for the idol and EXO as a group. While this is positive news, EXO has been plagued throughout the week by rumors regarding the potential departure of another EXO-M member, Tao.

Tao was injured on January 2, while filming the variety show "Idol Star Athletics Championship." He experienced a slow recovery period and was unable to participate in the promotional activities for the latest release from EXO, "Call Me Baby." On April 22, My Daily published a statement from SM Entertainment where the agency delivered confirmation regarding its negotiations with Tao's father, who allegedly posted harsh remarks on his Weibo account.

The web drama 'EXO Next Door' continues to provide a delightful look at EXO, while highlighting the comedic timing of D.O, Baekhyun, and Sehun. Chanyeol takes more of a melodramatic turn within the series, as the sulky protagonist who appears bent on humiliating Ji Yeon Hee (Moon Ga Young). Their shaky start from episodes 2 through 5 hints at an interesting turn of events, in episode 6.

Episode 6 of "EXO Next Door" opens with Chanyeol revealing some of his feelings for Yeon Hee. She thinks that she is an invisible maid, in his eyes, but he knows her identity beyond her current position. Chanyeol invites Yeon Hee to an interview from the members, where she will be interrogated, before they decide to hire her.

She expresses her trepidation and daydreams about an incredibly formal meeting with the EXO members. In an interesting twist, Yeon Hee's brother learns that the ugly guys next door are actually members of a boy group. However, he assumes that they have actual super powers. Yeon Hee attends the meeting with Chanyeol, D.O, Baekhyun and Sehun, where she earns the nickname, Incheon Gal.

With its focus on the otherwordly qualities of the group and Yeon Hee's comedic awkwardness, "EXO Next Door" continues to draw the attention of fans back towards the humorous side of EXO and away from recent scandals.

"EXO Next Door" will continue to air on Naver TV Cast and Line through May 28, 2015. New episodes are released each Thursday.