Singer BoA has formalized her separation from SM Entertainment, where she spent 25 years, drawing renewed attention to her future plans. Earlier she had mentioned "retirement," so there is intense interest in whether this will be a retirement or a new challenge as a "free agent (FA) big catch."
This farewell between BoA and SM was not a choice that came suddenly without warning. Earlier in April 2024, BoA hinted at retirement by posting on social media, "Now that the contract is over, I can retire, right?" which sparked widespread discussion. The next day she posted again, adding, "My contract runs until Dec. 31, 2025. Until then, I will do my best as singer BoA and be truly happy. Don't worry," attempting to clarify her remarks.
At the time, various interpretations followed BoA's remarks. Some speculated that the criticism and malicious comments that followed her portrayal of the villain Oh Yura in the drama Marry My Husband, and her public responses to those attacks, may have created significant emotional strain. However, BoA did not draw a firm line about retirement plans and only said she would "do her best until the end of the contract."
And about a year later on the 12th, BoA finally announced the end of her partnership with SM Entertainment. SM said, "After long and in-depth discussions, we have agreed to conclude 25 years of partnership on Dec. 31, 2025." It added, "BoA has been SM's pride and symbol, and as an 'Asian star' we will continue to support her future path."
On the same day BoA also posted on social media a composed farewell, saying, "As much as we gave and received without sparing, I leave without regret," and "I am grateful for the time we shared, and I will continue to cheer on the shining SM Entertainment."
One released photo also drew attention. It showed her smiling while sitting on a large sculpture made with her name "BoA," and the words THANK YOU and return written on the tape wrapped around the sculpture left a poignant impression. Some fans interpreted this as "a symbolic scene of closing 25 years," while others warned against excessive speculation and said attention should focus more on BoA's next steps.
What is clear is that BoA has never officially declared "retirement." She also did not specifically mention plans after the contract ends. For this reason, many in the industry and among fans give weight to the possibility of a fresh start in a new environment rather than complete retirement.
BoA, who debuted at age 13 with her 2000 first full-length album ID; Peace B and wrote K-pop's history of overseas expansion. Now, past her 25th debut anniversary and at another turning point, whether her choice will be a "period" or another "start" remains open. After parting with SM, under what name and on what stage BoA will stand again is a question drawing attention. Whether retirement or a FA big catch, all eyes are on her next move. Now the choice is BoA's to make.
[Photo] OSEN DB
[OSEN]