BoA Ends 25-Year Partnership with SM as She Embarks on New Journey as “Star of Asia”

BoA, the icon who pioneered Hallyu, is concluding her 25-year association with SM Entertainment, where she has been under contract since 2000. On the 12th, SM Entertainment officially announced that BoA and the company had agreed to end their 25-year relationship effective December 31 of the previous year, stating that she had been a true source of pride, honor, and symbol for SM over those 25 years.

Debuting in 2000 at the age of 14, BoA has won the love of K-pop fans through hit songs such as “No.1,” “Atlantis Girl,” and “Only One.” She led the Hallyu wave by becoming the first Korean singer to have two albums reach million-selling status on Japan’s Oricon chart, earning her massive popularity in Japan.

SM Entertainment explained that even after 25 years since her debut, BoA has remained a “global icon of overseas expansion” and the “Star of Asia” who opened up Hallyu across Asia. She has received tremendous affection from global music fans and served as a role model for countless younger artists driving the K-pop craze.

The agency further praised BoA’s journey as that of a pioneer and trailblazer, highlighting that her relentless effort and passion enabled her to achieve outstanding results and set unique records. It added that the company will always remember every moment of BoA’s special career journey, from her groundbreaking debut to her growth as a No.1 artist and producer, expressing deep honor at having been part of her remarkable path.

Although her exclusive contract with SM has ended, the agency stated it will support BoA as she fully showcases her talents in new activities and challenges ahead, helping her continue to shine as the “Star of Asia.” It also asked for continued love and attention for BoA’s future, wishing her happiness not just as an artist but also as Gwon BoA in her personal life.

In April 2024, BoA posted on her personal social media account, writing, “Now that my contract is over, I can retire, right?” This was a typo for “retire,” and she quickly corrected it, implying that she was indeed considering retirement. Later, she reassured her fans by saying, “My contract runs until December 31, 2025. Until then, I will truly be happy and give my best as singer BoA.”