BoA, SM part ways after 25 years

Singer BoA poses for a promotional image released by SM Entertainment. / SM Entertainment

K-pop star BoA has concluded her exclusive contract with SM Entertainment, bringing to a close a 25-year partnership that helped define the global rise of Korean pop music.

SM said Monday that, following extensive discussions, both sides agreed to end their long-running collaboration as of Dec. 31, 2025. “From her extraordinary debut to her growth as a producer, it was an honor to walk this journey together,” the agency said, calling BoA “an undeniable symbol of SM.”

BoA debuted in 2000 at the age of 13 under SM, quickly gaining attention for her exceptional singing and dance skills. She went on to become one of the most influential figures in Korean pop, particularly after her official Japanese debut in 2002, where she earned recognition as a “No. 1 artist” and paved the way for Korean acts in overseas markets.

SM described BoA as an “icon of overseas expansion” who opened the door for the Korean Wave across Asia and served as a role model for generations of younger K-pop artists. “We sincerely wish happiness for Kwon Bo-ah beyond her role as an artist,” the company said, using her real name, while asking fans to continue supporting her future endeavors.

BoA was personally scouted by Lee Soo-man, SM’s founder and former executive producer. In recognition of her contributions, she was appointed a non-executive director in 2014 and later demonstrated her capabilities behind the scenes as a producer, including her involvement in the NCT Wish project.

As one of the earliest architects of K-pop’s global success, BoA’s next chapter is drawing keen attention from fans and the industry alike.

ⓒ "젊은 파워, 모바일 넘버원 아시아투데이"