BoA Ends 25-Year Partnership with SM Entertainment

BoA terminated her exclusive contract with SM Entertainment, which she had been associated with for 25 years, on December 31, 2025. On the 12th, SM Entertainment issued an official statement saying, “After lengthy and in-depth discussions with BoA, it was agreed that their 25-year partnership would come to an end on December 31.”

BoA debuted at the age of 14 in 2000 and became beloved through hit songs such as “Number One,” “Atlantis Girl,” and “Only One.” Over the 25 years since her debut, she has been regarded as SM Entertainment’s pride and symbol, serving as a role model for numerous younger artists.

In particular, she was the first Korean singer to have two albums reach million-sales status on Japan’s Oricon chart, earning her massive popularity in Japan and helping lead the K-pop Hallyu wave. SM Entertainment praised her by saying, “Even now, 25 years after her debut, BoA has continued to be a ‘global icon of overseas expansion’ and an ‘Asian star’ who has earned great love from music fans around the world. She has also served as a role model for many younger artists driving the K-pop craze.”

In 2014, she was appointed as a non-registered director in recognition of her contributions to SM Entertainment’s growth. More recently, she has demonstrated her skills as a producer by participating in the production process of new groups such as NCT Wish. SM Entertainment said, “We will always remember every moment of BoA’s journey—from her groundbreaking debut that wrote new history for Korea’s music industry to her current status as a No.1 artist and producer. It has been a true honor for our company to accompany her through all those brilliant steps.”

Through social media, BoA shared her feelings by saying, “I am leaving without any regrets, having given everything I had.” She continued, “I am grateful for the time we spent together, and I will continue to support SM Entertainment as it shines in the future. Thank you.” SM Entertainment expressed their support by saying, “We hope BoA can fully showcase her abilities in her new activities and challenges, continuing to shine as an ‘Asian star.’ We also wish Kwon Boa, beyond her role as an artist, a truly happy future.”