EXO, the globally renowned K-pop group, is famed for their captivating stage presence and powerful performances, especially during comebacks like their ‘Obsession’ era as X-EXO. The concept of duality, showcasing the stark contrast between their on-stage charisma and off-stage personalities, was even highlighted by Lee Soo Man, inspiring their sixth album. However, beyond the fierce and cool image, EXO members reveal a softer side, a deep affection for their beloved pets. These furry, scaled, and feathered friends are not just companions but cherished members of the EXO family. Let’s take a closer look at the adorable pets that have captured the hearts of EXO and EXO-Ls alike.
1. Sehun: Vivi and Monsieur – The Chic Bichon and the Charming Brown Dog
Sehun, the group’s stylish maknae, is a proud pet parent to two dogs with distinctly different personalities. His first canine companion is Vivi, a fluffy white Bichon Frise. Vivi is well-known among EXO-Ls for her calm and gentle demeanor, often contrasting with the playful energy of other Exo Pets. Sehun frequently shares glimpses of Vivi on social media and during live streams, making her a beloved figure in the EXO fandom.
More recently, Sehun welcomed Monsieur, a charming brown dog, into his life. The story behind Monsieur is quite unique. Originally belonging to a friend and his girlfriend, Monsieur found his forever home with Sehun when their relationship faced uncertainty. Sehun has expressed his growing fondness for Monsieur and his plans to keep him permanently, indicating another adorable addition to the EXO pet family.
2. Chanyeol: Toben – The Hyperactive Toy Poodle with an Instagram Following
Chanyeol, known for his bright and energetic personality, is also a well-known animal lover within EXO. He is the devoted owner of Toben, a black Toy Poodle named after the legendary composer Beethoven. True to his breed and perhaps influenced by his owner’s vibrant energy, Toben is described by Chanyeol as incredibly hyperactive, especially when they are together.
Toben’s popularity extends beyond EXO-Ls, as he even has his own dedicated Instagram account, managed by Chanyeol. Fans can follow Toben’s playful antics and get a glimpse into his life with Chanyeol on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tobenstagram/?igshid=1mf0h1lklgnre
3. Suho: Byul – The Star-Like Companion Since Trainee Days
Suho, EXO’s guardian leader, has a special bond with his dog, Byul. Byul, whose name means “star” in Korean, has been a constant presence in Suho’s life since his trainee days. This long-term companionship makes Byul more than just a pet to Suho; he often refers to her as his daughter. Considering EXO’s celestial concept, Byul’s name is particularly fitting, and fans are well aware of how much Suho cherishes her, much like he treasures each EXO member.
4. Kai: Monggu, Jjangu, and Jjangah – The Trio of Poodles and Ultimate Dog Lover
Kai is undeniably known as the ultimate dog lover in EXO, boasting an impressive pack of three adorable poodles. Monggu, a brown poodle, is the eldest of the trio and holds a special place in the family. He is not only a beloved pet but also the inspiration behind the name of Kai’s sister’s cafe, Kamong Espresso, a popular spot for EXO-Ls. Long-time fans might recognize Monggu from his appearance in EXO’s “Miracles in December” music video.
Jjangu, also a brown Toy Poodle, is Kai’s second oldest dog, further solidifying Kai’s preference for this breed.
Completing Kai’s poodle family is Jjangah, a white Toy Poodle and the youngest of the three. She is also the only female dog in Kai’s pack, adding a touch of feminine energy to the group of EXO pets.
Kai’s dedication to his dogs was even showcased on EXO’s reality show, “EXO’s Showtime,” where an episode featured Kai and Suho walking and exercising Kai’s energetic poodle trio.
5. D.O: Pepper and Ink – The Colorfully Named Canine Duo
D.O, known for his strength and dependability within EXO, is a loving owner to two dogs named Pepper and Ink. Adopted in 2017, Pepper and Ink’s names are inspired by their distinctive fur colors, making them easily distinguishable and adding a personal touch to their identities as EXO pets.
6. Baekhyun: Mongryong – The Corgi Companion at His Parents’ Home
Baekhyun, affectionately known as part of EXO’s beagle-line for his playful and energetic nature, owns a charming Corgi named Mongryong. While Baekhyun is known for his vibrant personality, Mongryong seems to reside primarily at his parents’ home. As revealed in a vlog on Baekhyun’s YouTube channel, this arrangement is likely due to Baekhyun’s demanding schedule as a popular artist, ensuring Mongryong receives consistent care and attention even when Baekhyun is busy.
Fans can catch glimpses of Baekhyun’s life and occasionally Mongryong on his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUyr5000laFgF79tWJB3rXQ
7. Xiumin: Tan – The Elegant Norwegian Wood Cat
Xiumin, known for his meticulous and organized nature, was the first EXO member to introduce a feline companion into the EXO pet family. Tan, a beautiful Norwegian Wood cat, joined Xiumin’s life in 2018. Xiumin revealed Tan to fans on his Instagram, sparking excitement among EXO-Ls who eagerly anticipated adorable photos of Xiumin and his elegant kitty.
8. Chen: Cat (?) – The Mystery Feline Newcomer
Chen, known for his smooth vocals and gentle demeanor, recently became the second EXO member to welcome a cat into his family in late June 2020. Following Xiumin’s lead, Chen opted for a feline companion, adding to the diversity of EXO pets. While Chen has announced the arrival of his cat, the name of this new furry family member is yet to be revealed, leaving fans in anticipation.
Bonus: Lay and Past Pets
While Lay charmingly mentioned in a Buzzfeed interview that he had a cat before his trainee days, he currently does not own a pet. However, the ever-growing EXO pet family has EXO-Ls excited and wondering if more members will adopt pets in the future, further expanding this adorable and heartwarming aspect of EXO’s lives. The EXO pets are truly a reflection of the members’ caring personalities, adding another layer to their already captivating personas.
