In a recent episode of YouTube variety show Hyo’s Level Up, BoA opened up about the emotional toll of hate comments and the lingering misunderstandings surrounding her participation in GOT the beat.
During the candid conversation, fellow SM artist and Girls’ Generation member Hyoyeon praised BoA’s legendary work ethic. “When BoA unnie was in the practice room, I used to peek at how she rehearsed. She’s meticulous and practices until everything is perfect,” said Hyoyeon, contrasting it with her own lighter approach.
BoA humbly responded, “Sometimes I get choreography mixed up because my brain feels full. If I don’t memorize it perfectly, I just dance my own way.” She also joked about Hyoyeon’s knack for surprising gestures on stage, calling her the “ultimate trickster.”
As they reminisced about their time promoting with GOT the beat —a supergroup that includes Taeyeon (Girls’ Generation), Seulgi and Wendy (Red Velvet), and Karina and Winter (aespa) — BoA touched on a subject that has long been a sore point.
“People misunderstood and thought GOT the beat was created because of me. That’s not true. I even tried to step away and sent a message saying, ‘I don’t think I belong.’ But the hate comments kept coming. It made me think, ‘I did it, and I’m still getting criticized.’ It was heartbreaking.”
The backlash was so intense that in April 2024, BoA hinted at retirement, alarming fans who’ve admired her since her groundbreaking debut at just 13. While she took a step back from the public eye for about six months, she resumed activity by October through SNS, slowly regaining her footing.
BoA emphasized that few people truly understand her beyond the public persona. “People think they know me, but most don’t really understand who I am,” she said, reflecting on the burden of being a long-standing figure in the ever-evolving K-pop industry.
Despite the setbacks, BoA continues to leave a lasting legacy—not just through music, but also by openly discussing mental health, idol pressure, and her human side.
Sources: 스포츠조선