Singer BoA, who dropped her new single "Who Are You" on Wednesday, has spoken about her 15-year musical career with a local entertainment magazine.

BoA, 28, said that good "mental health" is essential for those employed in the K-pop industry, which is why she tries to live as "normal" a life as possible.

(The Celebrity)

"I often go to watch movies and eat at popular restaurants," said BoA to the Celebrity magazine. "People don't recognize me as often in public as you would think."

BoA said her motto and that of her close colleagues is to enjoy work.

"Working hard is a given, but I also want to ... build a positive career that is based on enjoying work," said BoA.

Though the singer has enough experience to "qualify (her) as a company director," she said that professional experience is not always her primary concern when choosing who to work with.

(The Celebrity)

"When I work with dancers who aren't that experienced but have a lot of fresh energy, it raises anticipation and I become energized by how hard they work," said BoA. "I think your state of mind is more important than your professional experience ... you have to be able to connect well with staff members."

BoA also hinted at exciting upcoming musical collaborations. She is due to release her first album in three years "Kiss My Lips" on Tuesday.

The Korean singer debuted her musical career at age 13 and achieved breakout success two years later. She has had hit singles in Asia and the U.S.

(The Celebrity)

By Yoon Sarah (sarah356@heraldcorp.com)

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