SM Entertainment's 30-year history includes a name that spent as many as 25 years with it. It is BoA, the "star of Asia." But unfortunately, she said goodbye to SM.
In January last year, BoA personally introduced SM Entertainment's 30-year history through SBS's Lunar New Year special program K-POP The Beginning: SMTOWN 30**. The broadcast first revealed the stage of SM's 30th anniversary concert "SMTOWN LIVE 2025 'THE CULTURE, THE FUTURE' in SEOUL," which was held successfully at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul and drew great attention.
At that time on stage, BoA showed her presence as a solid pillar of SM and a symbol that transcends generations. And exactly one year later, BoA quietly delivered a farewell amid another important choice.
In January this year, BoA posted on her social media, "As much as we gave and received without reserve, I leave without regrets," expressing her feelings about parting with SM Entertainment. She then added a final farewell, saying, "I am grateful for the time we spent together, and I will continue to root for the shining SM Entertainment. Thank you."
On the same day, SM Entertainment also officially announced the end of the exclusive contract. SM said, "After long and in-depth discussions, we decided to conclude the 25-year partnership as of Dec. 31," and added, "Although the exclusive contract has ended, we sincerely support BoA as she continues to shine as the 'star of Asia.'" It also added, "We hope that Kwon BoA's future, beyond being an artist, will be happy."
BoA, who debuted in 2000 with her first studio album 'ID; Peace B,' entered the music industry at the age of 13 and became a key figure who rewrote the history of K-pop's overseas expansion. She left behind numerous hit songs and records, establishing herself as a leading female solo singer representing K-pop, and marked her 25th debut anniversary last year.
BoA, who spent 25 years with SM's 30-year history. Now she walks a new path entirely under her own name, not as "SM's BoA." Not an end but another beginning. Support and applause continue for BoA's "standing on her own."<
[Photo] OSEN DB'
[OSEN]