BoA addresses fans following controversy over drunken livestream

Singer BoA reflects on career and struggles after drunken livestream backlash. Captured from her social media

Singer BoA has shared her thoughts with fans following a recent controversy over a livestream in which she was drinking. In a message posted on a fan platform on Tuesday, the veteran singer reflected on her personal struggles, career, and enduring passion for music.

“I’ve gone through difficult times not just professionally, but personally over the past few years,” BoA wrote. “Still, I believed I was doing my best in every way I could.”

She acknowledged that her actions might not have resonated well with everyone. “Maybe the way I kept pushing forward felt uncomfortable to some people,” she said. “In the past, I believed that if I simply worked hard and did what was asked of me, things would naturally get better. But the world has changed, and so have I. With those changes hitting all at once, I’ve asked myself countless times whether this is still the right place for me.”

Despite her doubts, BoA said she never let go of music because it remains central to her identity. “Without music, I feel like my life would collapse completely,” she said. “That’s why, in whatever form or way possible, I’ve wanted to stay connected to you through music.”

She also expressed deep gratitude to her fans. “Even in the moments when I felt completely broken and thought I’d never rise again, you and music were there,” she wrote. “I don’t know how much longer I’ll be able to stand on stage — we’re all growing older — but I believe we still have passionate potential within us.”

The message comes after BoA faced criticism for remarks made during an April 5 livestream with TV personality Jun Hyun-moo, in which both appeared to be under the influence.

During the broadcast, BoA joked about Jun dating comedian Park Na-rae. “You couldn’t date her. You’re too good for her,” BoA said. Some viewers found the comment disrespectful. She later apologized for her remarks and apologized to Park.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.