‘Queen of K-pop’ BoA parts ways with SM Entertainment after 25 years

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BoA, the singer known as the ‘Queen of K-pop’, has parted ways with the SM Entertainment agency after 25 years.

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The artist, born Kwon Bo-ah, debuted with the company in 2000 at the age of 13 and is often credited with helping establish South Korean music spread outside of the country.

Today (January 12), though, SM Entertainment issued an official statement confirming that the working relationship had come to an amicable end, thanking her for contributions and sharing a tribute video commemorating the last quarter of a century.

“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Jumping BoA (BoA’s official fan club) and everyone who has always loved and supported artist BoA,” they wrote. “After extensive and in-depth discussions with BoA, we have agreed to conclude our 25-year journey together as of December 31, 2025.”

BoA posted her own message on Instagram, writing: “Having give and received without holding back, I leave without regrets. I’m grateful for the time we shared and will continue to support the ever-shining SM Entertainment. Thank you.”

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SM Entertainment’s post described BoA as “an icon of global expansion who pioneered the Korean Wave across Asia”, and as the “Star of Asia” who became “a role model for countless junior artists driving the K-pop boom”.

“From her extraordinary debut that wrote a new chapter in Korean popular music history to her present growth as a No.1 artist and producer, we remember every moment, and it has been a true honor for our company to walk alongside her every step of the way,” they added.

“For 25 years, BoA has been, without question, the pride, joy, and symbol of SM. Although our exclusive contract is coming to an end, we will continue to support BoA as she fully demonstrates her capabilities in the new activities and challenges ahead, and we hope she will shine even brighter as the Star of Asia.”

Last year, BoA said she “doesn’t know how much longer I’ll be able to keep performing”, after becoming embroiled in controversy for remarks made during a livestream while inebriated.

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