"I feel like my life is completely collapsing"…BoA, mentioning retirement amid vandalism attacks, fans worry, "Will she retire even sooner?"
The living legend of K-pop, BoA, has been hurt once again. In her 24th year since debut, malicious vandalism targeting her has occurred, and recent comments hinting at her retirement have raised concerns among fans.
On the 12th, Channel A reported that a suspect in the vandalism attack that occurred at a bus stop in Gangnam, Seoul, was captured on CCTV. A woman with short hair, carrying a handbag, suddenly stopped while walking and began writing something on a no-parking sign and a utility pole with a pen. This area has recently seen a series of personal attacks against BoA, which have been pointed out as serious defamation against the artist, going beyond simple property damage.
The shock of this incident is compounded by the hint of retirement that BoA recently expressed. BoA previously mentioned on her social media, "My contract is until December 31, 2025," referring to the expiration date of her exclusive contract with SM Entertainment, and said, "Until then, I will do my best as the singer BoA and truly be happy!" Fans were unable to hide their shock at this statement, which seemed to imply an end to her activities.
On the 15th, BoA conveyed her feelings once again. "Nevertheless, the reason I can't let go of music is that when music disappears, I feel like my life is completely collapsing," she said, adding, "So in any way, in any form, I wanted to achieve consolidation with you through music. Even in moments where I felt like I collapsed and could never get back up, there was music and you."
Fans, encountering both the vandalism attacks and hints of retirement, can't hide their anxiety, wondering, "Will she really retire even sooner?" This is why BoA's last fan message, "Don't worry, my lovely Jumping (BoA fandom)," sounds increasingly heavy.
Amidst such circumstances, voices of concern, anger, and sorrow are mixed in online and fan communities. "Surely this isn't really a decision to retire?" "What has BoA done wrong… it's heartbreaking to hear about retirement," "Get through this and stay strong," "We want to see the star of Asia, BoA, for a long time. Please stay strong," and "It brought me to tears to see fans erasing the vandalism," with fans particularly asserting, "We must protect BoA so she doesn't get hurt anymore."
Moreover, this incident, which is close to a 'social terrorism' against a first-generation icon who has led K-pop abroad and is still performing, is being recognized as a public issue that goes beyond simple vandalism. SM Entertainment has announced strong responses to the incident and plans to file a formal complaint. Fans continue to express their hopes for BoA to gather her strength once more and stay longer.
[Photo] OSEN DB
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