Singer BoA is set to part ways with SM Entertainment, bringing an end to their 25-year partnership. On January 12, SM Entertainment announced that, following extensive and in-depth discussions, both parties mutually agreed to conclude their long-standing relationship.
BoA debuted in 2000 at the age of 13 and went on to become a defining figure of the Korean Wave across Asia. Widely known as the “Star of Asia,” she earned global recognition and immense popularity, while also becoming a role model for countless K-pop artists who followed her path.
SM Entertainment praised BoA as a pioneer and trailblazer, stating that her journey was marked by constant effort, passion, and groundbreaking achievements that helped shape the history of Korean pop music. The agency emphasized that it was a great honor to share every stage of her career, from her historic debut to her evolution into a top artist and producer.
Prior to the announcement, BoA had sparked discussion among fans through social media posts hinting at retirement. In April 2024, she wrote, “When my contract ends, can I retire?” before later clarifying the comment and reassuring fans that her contract would run through December 31, 2025, and that she intended to continue performing happily as BoA until then.
Although BoA’s exclusive contract with SM Entertainment has ended, the company expressed continued support for her future endeavors, encouraging fans to look forward to her new challenges and wishing her happiness and success in both her artistic career and personal life.
Here is statement from SM Entertainment:
Hello, this is SM Entertainment.
First, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to Jumping BoA and to everyone who has always loved and supported the artist BoA.
After a long period of in-depth discussions with BoA, we have mutually agreed to conclude our 25-year journey together as of December 31.
BoA debuted in 2000 at the age of 13, and even now, after passing her 25th debut anniversary, she has received great love from global music fans as the “icon of overseas expansion” and the “Star of Asia,” pioneering the Korean Wave across Asia, and has become a role model for numerous junior artists leading the K-pop boom.
As a pioneer and trailblazer, the journey BoA has walked was able to shine by leaving behind remarkable achievements and unparalleled records thanks to her relentless effort and passion.
From BoA’s special debut that wrote a new history in the Korean popular music industry to the present, where she has grown into a No.1 artist and producer, we remember every moment, and it was a great honor for our company to be able to accompany her brilliant footsteps.
For 25 years, BoA has been, in name and reality, SM’s pride, honor, and symbol.
Although our exclusive contract with her has come to an end, we sincerely support BoA in fully demonstrating her capabilities through her future activities and challenges and continuing her even more brilliant journey as the “Star of Asia.”
We ask for much love and interest in BoA’s newly unfolding future.
We also support the future of Kwon BoA, not only as an artist, and sincerely wish her happiness.
Thank you.
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