She is widely credited for helping the agency become a major industry force.
In a statement issued on Monday, January 12, SM Entertainment confirmed that they have parted ways with Kwon Boa, popularly known as BoA, after a 25-year partnership that dates back to the pioneering idol’s debut.
After thanking Jumping BoA, her official fan club), for their support and love towards the 39-year-old superstar, the company wrote in Korean, “After extensive and in-depth discussions with BoA, we have agreed to conclude our 25-year journey together as of December 31, 2025.”
“Debuting in 2000 at the age of 13, BoA has, now past the 25th anniversary of her debut, been beloved by global music fans as an ‘icon of global expansion’ who pioneered the Korean Wave across Asia and as the ‘Star of Asia,’ and she has become a role model for countless junior artists driving the K-pop boom,” they added.
SM also noted in their statement her various career milestones, which include her debut that “marked a new chapter” in K-pop and her current role both as a leading artist and producer, where they will remember every moment and added, “it has been a true honor for our company to walk alongside her every step of the way.”
“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,’” the agency furthered.
They also emphasized: “For 25 years, BoA has been, without question, the pride, joy, and symbol of SM.”
“We ask for your continued love and support for BoA as she embarks on this new chapter. We also support the future of Kwon BoA the person, beyond the artist, and sincerely wish her happiness. Thank you,” the company shared.
Following the announcement, SM uploaded a nearly six-minute-long video that looked back at her time with SM Entertainment, dating back to her early days as a teen star to her present stature as a massively successful artist.
Over at her personal profile, BoA shared a short message. She said, “Having given and received without holding back, I leave without regrets.“
She added, “I’m grateful for the time we shared and will continue to support the ever-shining SM Entertainment. Thank you.”
In the photos, she was also seen with a set of prop items that spelled out her name and has been wrapped with the words “thank you.”
BoA debuted in 2000 with her first album entitled ID; Peace B, which featured the title track. In the years that came after, she released songs like No.1, Atlantis Princess, Milky Way, and Only One, as well as Japanese albums—all of which cemented her status as the Queen of K-pop.
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