K-pop pioneer BoA at crossroads

K-pop pioneer BoA has officially ended her 25-year relationship with SM Entertainment, setting off intense speculation about whether she is preparing for retirement — or a dramatic reunion with SM founder Lee Soo-man. SM confirmed Monday that BoA’s exclusive contract had expired and would not be renewed. Industry watchers had expected a renewal, making the sudden “clean break” all the more surprising. In its farewell statement, SM praised BoA as “the icon of overseas expansion” and “the star of Asia,” saying, “Although our exclusive contract has ended, we sincerely support BoA as she begins new challenges and continues to shine as Asia’s star.” The company also released a tribute video on BoA’s YouTube channel, chronicling her journey from her debut at age 13 in 2000 to today. The video closed with the message, “We sincerely support every moment of BoA, who will forever shine as No.1.” BoA responded with her own message, saying, “As much as we gave to each other, I am leaving without regret. Thank you for the time we shared, and I will continue to support thWeiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times Weiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times