Singer BoA faces online harassment...SM "strong response to false rumors and defamation"
Singer BoA is expressing severe mental anguish due to offline graffiti terror. Recently, he hinted at retirement, saying, "Is it okay to retire once the contract ends?" After this, the incident has had an even bigger shock for fans.
According to Channel A News on the 12th, footage of a suspect engaging in graffiti was captured on the 5th at a bus stop in the middle of Gangnam, Seoul. A woman with short hair carrying a handbag was seen writing something on a no parking sign and a utility pole. It is reported that the graffiti contained malicious content and insults directed at BoA.
This terror did not stop as an isolated incident. Similar graffiti was subsequently discovered in various locations including Gangnam Station, Sinnonhyeon Station, and Yeoksam-daero, widening the impact. Ultimately, fans voluntarily stepped forward to erase the graffiti, and BoA's agency, SM Entertainment, formally filed a complaint.
On the 11th, SM stated, "We confirmed the graffiti through fan reports and our own monitoring, and we plan to file a formal complaint today after notifying the police," adding, "Spreading false facts and public insults are clear criminal acts, and we will respond firmly without any leniency."
However, the anger of the fans is not easily quelled. Following BoA's post on social media last year stating, "Is it okay to retire once the contract ends?" she later clarified that the expression wasn't just a typo but a hint at "retirement," attracting attention. She later conveyed the message, "The contract lasts until December 31, 2025. Until then, I will do my best to be happy as BoA," but concerns among fans about her retirement hint still remain.
BoA has expressed pain from malicious comments and attacks numerous times. Recently, while playing the villain O Yu-ra in the drama "Marry My Husband," she suffered from a barrage of negative comments confusing the character with reality. At that time, she publicly criticized, saying, "Celebrities are also human. Malicious comments are always bad," and expressed feelings hinting at retirement. The recent offline terror adds another layer of injury.
SM emphasized, "We are continuously proceeding with legal complaints about malicious posts online, including on social media and communities, and we plan to hold those responsible for malicious acts accountable to the end." They reiterated their strong stance, stating, "The artist is experiencing severe mental anguish that is difficult to bear, and we will strongly punish without leniency or settlement."
However, there are concerns that such attacks against BoA may escalate beyond a retirement declaration. Fans are responding with bittersweet remarks such as, "Now I understand the reason BoA wants to leave," and "I'm sorry we couldn't protect you."
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