Singer BoA is leaving SM Entertainment after 25 years.
SM Entertainment said on the 12th, "After long and in-depth discussions with BoA, the company has agreed to conclude their 25-year partnership on Dec. 31."
The agency said, "BoA, who debuted at the age of 13 in 2000, has, more than 25 years after her debut, been loved by global music fans as the 'icon of overseas expansion' who pioneered the Korean wave across Asia and as 'a star of Asia,' and has become a role model for countless juniors leading the K-pop wave," adding, "As a pioneer and forerunner, the journey BoA has walked was able to shine and leave unmatched records and brilliant achievements thanks to BoA's relentless effort and passion," expressing affection for BoA.
The agency continued, "From BoA's special debut that wrote a new history in Korea's popular music industry to the present, when she has grown into a No. 1 artist and producer, we remember every moment, and it was truly a great honor that the company could be with her on those brilliant steps. BoA has been, for 25 years, indisputably SM's pride, honor and symbol," it added.
Finally, "Although the exclusive contract with the company will end, we will cheer for BoA to freely demonstrate her abilities in the new activities and challenges she will show going forward and to continue a more brilliant path as 'a star of Asia,'" adding, "Please give much love and interest to BoA's future that will newly unfold. We also support the future of Kwon BoA, not just the artist, and sincerely wish her happiness," the agency said.
Meanwhile, BoA, who debuted in 2000 with her first studio album 'ID;Peace B,' marked her 25th anniversary last year.
The following is the agency's full statement.
Hello. This is SM Entertainment.
First, we sincerely thank Jumping BoA fans and everyone who always loves and supports the artist BoA.
After long and in-depth discussions with BoA, the company has agreed to conclude their 25-year partnership on Dec. 31.
BoA, who debuted at the age of 13 in 2000, has, more than 25 years after her debut, been loved by global music fans as the 'icon of overseas expansion' who pioneered the Korean wave across Asia and as 'a star of Asia,' and has become a role model for countless juniors leading the K-pop wave.
As a pioneer and forerunner, the journey BoA has walked was able to shine and leave unmatched records and brilliant achievements thanks to BoA's relentless effort and passion.
From BoA's special debut that wrote a new history in Korea's popular music industry to the present, when she has grown into a No. 1 artist and producer, we remember every moment, and it was truly a great honor that the company could be with her on those brilliant steps.
BoA has been, for 25 years, indisputably SM's pride, honor and symbol.
Although the exclusive contract with the company will end, we will cheer for BoA to freely demonstrate her abilities in the new activities and challenges she will show going forward and to continue a more brilliant path as 'a star of Asia.'
Please give much love and interest to BoA's future that will newly unfold.
We support the future of Kwon BoA, not just the artist, and sincerely wish her happiness. [Photo] OSEN DB [OSEN]