NU'EST Aron and BTL Joel Urge K-Pop Fans to Respect this Artist's Legacy who Paved the Way for Modern Idols

Former NU'EST member Aron (Aaron Kwak) and former BTL member Joel recently discussed the significant impact of K-pop legend BoA on their joint YouTube podcast, KOREAN COWBOYS. The duo, who have a combined decade of experience in the K-pop industry, expressed deep respect for BoA, calling her "the queen of K-Pop" and their "beloved super sunbae." They used this post to call out current K-pop fans who disrespect BoA, reminding them that she paved the way for many of the idols and groups they love today.

They emphasized that her influence on the industry cannot be understated and urged current fans to respect her legacy.

Joel and Aaron, who debuted in 2014 and 2012, respectively, highlighted BoA's critical role in establishing K-pop's international presence. Joel stated, "K-Pop, all your faves, everybody, him, me, all of us. We would not exist if it weren’t for BoA," reinforcing the idea that BoA was a trailblazer whose achievements laid the foundation for the industry’s current success. Aaron echoed these sentiments, pointing out that BoA's achievements helped build SM Entertainment into the powerhouse it is today, home to major acts like TVXQ, Girls' Generation, and EXO.

Aaron added, "She literally paved the way for junior groups like us, like the groups that are promoting now." However, BoA's recent hint at retirement has been met with sadness from fans. The announcement came after she faced a significant amount of online harassment, leading some fans to organize a protest by sending trucks to SM Entertainment's headquarters, urging the company to take action to protect their artists from such treatment.

Joel remarked, "In my opinion, there’s nothing that she could do or not do to say that she’s washed up. Because her legacy is in place. Everybody in the K-Pop world exists because of her." Both Aron and Joel stressed that fans need to respect the legacy of artists like BoA and focus on supporting them instead of contributing to the toxic environment that leads to burnout and potential retirement.

The impact of BoA's career even extends into academic circles. According to students from Yonsei University and Seoul National University, BoA's contributions to K-pop are acknowledged in their studies, with courses examining her role in shaping the industry's global footprint.

BoA debuted in 2000 at just 13 years old and quickly became a sensation with hits like "No. 1," "Girl's on Top," "Hurricane Venus," "Only One," and more recently "Emptiness."

Despite the prospect of her leaving the stage, BoA's influence remains strong. The recognition from industry insiders like Aron and Joel only reinforces the fact that she is an irreplaceable figure in the K-pop world.

You can watch the segment about BoA from 31:50.