On January 28th, during the SBS variety show 'K-POP The Beginning: SMTOWN 30,' K-pop icon BoA shared her heartfelt thoughts on her 28-year journey with SM Entertainment.
The episode showcased highlights from the SMTOWN LIVE 2025 [The Culture, The Future] in Seoul concert held at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul earlier this month, marking the 30th anniversary of SM Entertainment. Along with vibrant performances, the show also featured candid interviews with artists from various generations.
As the host of the special program, BoA revealed that she has been with SM Entertainment for 28 years, including her trainee period, making it a significant part of her life. She shared, "I’ve spent my teenage, twenties, and thirties here, so it feels more like a school than a company." Her statement left many viewers in awe as she reflected on her deep connection with the company over the years.
In the same episode, SHINee’s Key, who joined as a trainee in his second year of middle school, also opened up about his 20 years with the company. Key humorously mentioned, “I’ve been with SM for 20 years now, and I’m way up there now.” In response, BoA joked, "If this were any other company, I might have retired by now and collected my retirement bonus," sparking laughter among viewers.
'K-POP The Beginning: SMTOWN 30' is a special broadcast commemorating the 30th anniversary of SM Entertainment, a major milestone in the history of K-pop.