K-pop legend BoA, often hailed as the “Star of Asia,” has been diagnosed with acute osteonecrosis and is set to undergo surgery, her agency SM Entertainment confirmed this week. The news comes as the singer marks the 25th anniversary of her trailblazing career.
According to SM Entertainment, the 38-year-old artist recently sought medical attention for knee pain and was diagnosed with acute osteonecrosis—a rare and serious condition in which the blood supply to bone tissue is disrupted, leading to bone death. Doctors have recommended surgery without delay, which BoA will undergo in the near future.
As a result, her 25th anniversary solo concert, originally scheduled for August 30 and 31 at Seoul’s Jamsil Indoor Stadium, has been canceled. Despite this setback, BoA’s 11th full-length studio album Crazier will be released as planned on August 4.
Photo: BoA Instagram
Crazier marks her first full-length album in five years since Better (2020) and features 11 tracks, including the title track, a mix of high-energy dance numbers, heartfelt ballads, and several self-composed songs written and produced by BoA herself.
“BoA has deeply infused her own musical color into this album,” SM Entertainment stated, adding that the project is a special tribute to fans who have supported her throughout her career.
BoA debuted at just 14 years old in 2000 with ID; Peace B and quickly rose to pan-Asian stardom with hits like No.1, Listen to My Heart, Valenti, and Merry Christmas. Her influence on the Korean and Japanese music scenes earned her the title “Queen of K-pop,” and she remains one of the few artists to maintain cross-border success over two decades.
(Photo: SM Entertainment)
Acute osteonecrosis, the condition affecting BoA, is often silent in its early stages but can lead to severe pain, joint damage, and limited mobility as it progresses. It most commonly affects the hip, shoulder, knee, or spine and can result from trauma, steroid use, or alcohol-related blood vessel damage. Treatment options range from medication to surgery, including bone grafting and joint replacement.
While fans will miss seeing BoA on stage this summer, the release of Crazier ensures her musical presence will remain strong. SM Entertainment has requested continued support and well-wishes from fans as the artist focuses on her recovery. (worldpopkorea@gmail.com)
