Author: Kpop News Writer

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BTS’ RM Struts His Stuff at Bottega Veneta-Sponsored Event

RM

September 5 was a big day for the BTS ARMY. After a month away from the limelight, BTS’ leader Kim Namjoon, known to fans as RM, graced a Bottega Veneta event in Seoul. Before he stepped out then, his last public appearance was at SUGA’s D-DAY concert last August 6, making this event even more special for his fans.

@purple_se7en

Namjoon at the Bottega Veneta event ✨💙 #namjoon #rm #bts #bottegaveneta #fyp

♬ Collide X No – Leasis

RM made his presence felt at the grand opening of Suki Seokyeong Kang’s exhibition, “Willow Drum Oriole,” a collaboration with Bottega Veneta. The musician’s appointment as the brand’s first-ever celebrity ambassador was announced in March of this year. Since then, RM has attended different events, fulfilling his ambassadorial duties with grace. At this exhibition, he cut a dashing figure in a greenish-beige full-sleeved shirt and leather pants. His outfit screamed “brand ambassador”—it was sleek, stylish, and undeniably eye-catching.

However, what truly captivated attendees and fans alike was his approachable and warm demeanor. He engaged in meaningful conversations with people, showcasing his down-to-earth and friendly and down-to-earth nature. Notably, RM had the opportunity to converse with several prominent figures, including Bottega Venetta’s CEO, Bartolomeo Leo Rongone. These interactions not only solidified his role as a brand ambassador but also highlighted his ability to connect with everyone. His interaction with the artist behind the exhibition, Suki Seokyeong Kang, was significant as it demonstrated RM’s deep interest in the art world.

RM has always loved Bottega Venetta

Fans were quick to express their admiration on X (formerly Twitter), noting his passion for art. He has been known to visit museums globally, often sharing his experiences and insights on social media. This appreciation for art mirrors his intellectual depth and creativity, qualities that shine through in his music and lyrics.

It’s no surprise that RM’s doing well as a brand ambassador for Bottega Venetta. He has worn many pieces from the brand over the years. Before the brand brought him on board, RM talked about his desire to work with them. “I’d love to. Although I’ve lost interest in brands, fashion weeks, and the constant change in Pantone, Bottega Venetta is different,” he told media outlet El Pais in a previous interview. “They don’t use a logo, they have a history with weaving and leather, they don’t even have Instagram. They’re beyond the buzz.”

RM‘s presence at the “Willow Drum Oriole” exhibition celebrated the fusion of art and fashion. As he continues to make waves in the realms of fashion and art, fans eagerly await the next chapter in RM‘s journey as an art lover and fashion icon. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: For an art lover like RM, getting to talk to Suki Seokyeong Kang at the event was everything. Source: Twitter/@KNJsSource.

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Look: ENHYPEN Stuns as Seoul Fashion Week’s Brand Ambassadors

ENHYPEN attends Prada Mode event during the Seoul Fashion Week. Credit: Twitter/ENHYPEN

K-pop boy group ENHYPEN takes over the fashion industry as they are named Seoul Fashion Week’s brand ambassadors for the 2024 Spring/Summer edition. 

Officials for the Seoul Fashion Week SS24 confirmed to Vogue Business that the septet has been tapped due to the “growing global hunger for Korean culture.” 

 

The Seoul Fashion Week started on Tuesday, September 5 and will run until Saturday, September 9. It will be held at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), which is located in Seoul’s most fashionable district.

ENHYPEN X Prada 

The news of ENHYPEN’s participation at the Seoul Fashion Week came months after the group was announced as brand ambassadors for the fashion luxury brand Prada in June 2023. 

Prior to that, the seven-piece act attended Prada’s men’s fall 2023 fashion show in Milan in January. According to reports, ENHYPEN’s group appearance at the runway show generated $40.4 million in media impact value. 

Hence, it’s no surprising how the artists under BELIFT LAB are already considered to be fashion icons. During the opening of Seoul Fashion Week, Heeseung, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, Jungwon, and Niki flaunted their jaw-dropping visuals as they were fully dressed in Prada. 

 

Moreover, they also attended the Prada Mode in Seoul installation titled “Plural and Parallel.” The group’s appearances were posted by multiple fashion magazines including W, VOGUE, and ALLURE.

 

Prada also shared photos of ENHYPEN in their event, alongside their other brand ambassadors Kim Taeri, Lee Byungheon, and Esom. 

ENGENE’s excitement for ENHYPEN

Apart from being brand ambassadors for Prada, ENHYPEN were also tapped by Airbnb to be hosts for the fashion show. Two lucky guests were able to preview Seoul Fashion Week with an overnight stay at DDP. 

“We are honored to partner with Airbnb and DDP to bring guests behind the scenes of Seoul Fashion Week like never before. It’s so exciting to be part of the K-Wave movement, and share the magic of Korean music and fashion with the world.”, the group’s leader, Jungwon said then about the partnership.

Given ENHYPEN’s participation in Seoul Fashion Week, the group’s fandom, ENGENEs expressed their excitement for the boys upon hearing the news.  

Fans congratulated ENHYPEN and trended the hashtags #ENHYPEN_SFWAmbassadors #ENHYPENxPRADA on social media. “That means they are the face of the event this year. OMG, they are so big,” one fan wrote.

https://twitter.com/entanonly/status/1698871340885856444

 

ENGENEs also applauded Seoul Fashion Week’s decision to have the septet as ambassadors following their successful appearance at the Milan Fashion Week in January. There, ENHYPEN showed their remarkable impact as they drew in almost 7,000 fans, a crowd size the event had not seen in its previous years.

https://twitter.com/The_lost_spring/status/1698889812475077021

https://twitter.com/entanonly/status/1698881978110820370

 

Meanwhile, after their participation at the Seoul Fashion Week, the “Polaroid Love” singers are flying to Japan. They are slated to hold a two-day concert at the Tokyo Dome this September 13 and 14.

The show is part of the ENHYPEN WORLD TOUR ‘FATE’ IN JAPAN. They will then continue the tour in six cities across the United States throughout October.

Featured image: ENHYPEN attends Prada Mode event during the Seoul Fashion Week. Credit: Twitter/ENHYPEN

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BTS Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Exclusive Commemorative Medals

Global K-pop sensation BTS is marking its 10th anniversary in style. The Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation (KOMSCO) has launched the BTS 10th Anniversary Medals. They are available domestically and internationally. These limited-edition medals aren’t regular commemorative items; they’re a nice blend of art, sentiment, and technology.

The medals released this time are the second edition, and they’re unique as they have portraits of all BTS members, making it a collector’s dream. What’s even more intriguing is the use of advanced technology and a new design approach. Since only 2,000 gold and 49,000 silver medals are available as global limited editions, people expect the BTS 10th Anniversary Medals to be in high demand.

Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation (KOMSCO)

The gold medal, a first of its kind, comes in the form of an A5-sized poster. It shows the members of BTS in all their glory, with intricate carvings as fine as 10 micrometers. The BTS logo and the words “10th Anniversary” are prominently displayed, along with micro-text and security patterns in the background. The micro-text lists 10 of the group’s representative songs that defined the band’s journey, from “No More Dream” to “Yet to Come – The Most Beautiful Moment.”

On the other hand, the silver medal is as big as a CD. It captures the essence of each member with the intaglio technique, renowned for its precision in currency security. The border is engraved with “10th Anniversary” and the stage names of all seven BTS members.

Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation (KOMSCO)

More on the BTS 10th Anniversary Medals

If you’re eager to own one of the BTS 10th Anniversary Medals, the gold one costs 4.9 million KRW (approximately 3,680.23 USD) and the silver medal sells for 220,000 KRW (approximately 165.23 USD). You can buy them from outlets such as the Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation’s shopping mall, Weverse Shop, and Hyundai H Mall. International fans can turn to country-specific dealers like Panda America and Singapore Mint.

During this sales period, the 1st edition commemorative medals, which set records last December, will be up for grabs in limited quantities. To offer fans a look at the BTS 10th Anniversary Medals’ creation process, the Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation released a making-of video. Additionally, they set up an exhibition space for fans to see the medals in person.

방탄소년단 데뷔 10주년 기념메달 2차 출시 | BTS 10th Anniversary Commemorative Medal(2nd)

In a heartwarming gesture, KOMSCO will donate a portion of the proceeds from the medals’ sales to UNICEF. Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation CEO Bahn Jahng-Shick expressed his enthusiasm. He said, “This commemorative medal has been designed to realistically and beautifully capture BTS members’ portraits in honor of their 10th anniversary.”

The BTS 10th Anniversary Medals are not just tokens of appreciation. They’re a testament to the group’s decade-long journey. They symbolize the love and admiration of millions of ARMY worldwide. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: KOMSCO Design Research Center Associate Researcher Choi Hyun Jung played a big part the making of the medals. Source: YouTube/@prkomsco.

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ATEEZ’s Wooyoung Calls Out Sasaengs During Live Broadcast

On September 4, ATEEZ‘s Wooyoung decided to connect with fans via a YouTube livestream. While the broadcast started out in a lighthearted manner, the atmosphere quickly shifted as Wooyoung discussed the distressing behavior of fans called sasaengs. These overly obsessive fans caused him significant discomfort.

One of the primary concerns Wooyoung raised was the incessant KakaoTalk and text messages he’s been receiving from these sasaengs. Such messages are a blatant invasion of his privacy. Addressing this issue, Wooyoung said firmly, “I was not going to say this originally, but these days it’s extreme so I’ll say it once. Stop sending KakaoTalk and texts. It’s very stressful. It’s not a good way. Don’t do it. Got it? I’m not interested.”

@x1kteez

today’s live was crazy he wasnt having any of it 😭 #ateez #ateezwooyoung #kpop #wooyoung #atiny #kpopfyp #ateezfyp #fyp #fypシ゚viral #sasaengfans #kpopopinions

♬ wooowa ba ba ba ba – peyton

Adding to the idol’s frustration were comments from fans inquiring about other ATEEZ members like San or Yeosang. Wooyoung, feeling sidelined, asked, “Why are you looking for another member? It’s been a while since I came here. Why do you keep looking for San or Yeosang?”

The livestream took another unexpected turn when Wooyoung was asked who his favorite member of ATEEZ is. He responded, “I won’t answer [questions] about my favorite member from now on. If I answer this, I’ll hear that Wooyoung fought with San.” This statement highlights the speculations fans make, often leading to baseless rumors.

Poor Wooyoung!

The fans’ excitement was palpable when Wooyoung went live, especially since he hadn’t been active for quite a while. However, their joy was short-lived when they saw that he was visibly upset during the broadcast.

The aftermath of the livestream was a mix of emotions. Fans were left disheartened, witnessing his discomfort. Many expressed anger towards those responsible for Wooyoung’s distress, especially the sasaengs. The overarching sentiment was clear: celebrities, like everyone else, deserve respect and privacy. 

While fans’ enthusiasm and love for their idols are understandable, there’s a very fine line between admiration and obsession. It’s crucial that fans recognize this boundary and ensure they don’t do anything to adversely affect the mental well-being of their beloved idols. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Wooyoung got visibly upset during his live. Source: Twitter/@wyupdates_.

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ATEEZ’s Hongjoong Joins Balmain’s ‘Army’ of Ambassadors

The world of high fashion witnessed a significant moment on September 5 when ATEEZ’s Hongjoong was named the latest member of Balmain’s “Army.” This announcement by the French luxury fashion house was accompanied by a series of captivating photos showcasing Hongjoong in their Fall/Winter 2023 collection. These photos exude elegance and charm, and are a testament to Hongjoong‘s rising stature in the fashion world.

Balmain’s approach to brand representation is different and resonates with its ethos. Rather than using the conventional term “ambassador,” they created a community known as the “Balmain Army.” This community comprises people who embody the brand’s spirit. The ATEEZ leader’s induction into this elite group solidifies his position in the fashion world and highlights Balmain’s recognition of his influence and unique style.

Hongjoong has long been vocal about his passion for fashion. From a young age, he exhibited a knack for reforming clothes. (In Korea, “reforming clothes” refers to the act of “repairing old clothes so they’ll look new” or “repurposing old clothes, turning them into items like new bags or slippers.”) He once mentioned that he used to play in his mother’s clothing store as a kid. The time he spent doing that ignited a flame that has grown brighter with time. Today, Hongjoong is known for using fashion to express himself. But his love for it goes beyond dressing up; he wants to launch a gender-neutral, inclusive fashion line in the future.

When Hongjoong met Rousteing

Balmain has been a significant influence in Hongjoong‘s fashion journey. Throughout his career as a K-pop idol, he has consistently worn the fashion house’s pieces for various events and performances. ATINYs (ATEEZ’s fans) are aware of his admiration for the fashion house and its creative director, Olivier Rousteing. This was highlighted when Hongjoong revealed that Rousteing personally invited him to attend a Balmain event in Paris. When they finally met face to face, Hongjoong learned that he inspired Rousteing to work on new collections. That made him insanely happy.

ATEEZ(에이티즈) – HONGJOONG’s Balmain Presentation Behind

The relationship between Hongjoong and Balmain has been blossoming for a while, and ATINYs have eagerly anticipated a formal collaboration. Their wishes came true with this announcement, leading to an outpouring of support from ATINYs worldwide. Platforms like Reddit and Twitter are buzzing with congratulatory messages, discussions, and expressions of pride for the ATEEZ leader.

Hongjoong‘s induction into the Balmain Army is a significant milestone in his fashion journey. As he continues to inspire and draw inspiration, fans eagerly anticipate what he and Balmain will do next. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This announcement is a dream come true for Hongjoong, who has loved the fashion house for a while. Source: Instagram/@balmain.

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End of an Era: ‘BTS World’ Game to Shut Down After 4 Years

BTS in their promotional content for the 'BTS WORLD' game app. Credit: Twitter/Newmarble

Sad news, ARMYs. BTS WORLD, the mobile game dedicated to the world-renowned K-pop group BTS, will cease its services by the end of December this year. 

On Tuesday, September 5, Netmarble, the company behind the game, announced the impending shutdown of BTS WORLD.  “Thank you for your love and support for BTS WORLD,” they told the users. 

 

“This announcement is to inform that BTS WORLD will be discontinuing its service starting Tuesday, December 26 2023.”, the statement read.

More details about the service termination schedule and rules were mentioned in the post. As of writing, the game is no longer downloadable on Play Store or App Store.

“We greatly appreciate the support and love shown by the Managers towards our game,” Netmarble said. Additionally, they also assured users that they will make sure to minimize the conveniences until the service closes.

First launched in June 2019, BTS WORLD is a story-based mobile simulation game. In it, fans step into the shoes of BTS’ manager where they guide the members from pre-debut to stardom. Moreover, the game featured original soundtrack, exclusive video clip, and new photos of the BTS members.

 

The decision to shut down the game came after the release of its final chapter, Chapter 22, was made available in June 2022. 

 ARMYs’ requests

Sadly, BTS WORLD isn’t the first BTS game to come to an end. In June 2020, Superstar BTS also concluded its services despite the global fandom’s massive support. 

Upon hearing the news of another game closing, ARMYs pleaded with the company to archive BTS’ content created for the game. Given how well-thought of the flow of the game is, some fans are claiming it would be a shame to lose it all. 

As a way to remember the game, some fans created a thread of BTS WORLD’s full story lines, including its stunning soundtrack.

“Please consider creating an archive for all the artist-made content included in the game. it would be a shame to lose all of that for good especially after all the hard work the artists put into it and how much love ARMYs have for all the material,” one fan wrote.

 

Others, meanwhile, thanked the game and its developers. Some fans listed the amount of content that fans got from the platform. While many were applauding how the game gave them “another part of the BTS multiverse storytelling.” 

BTS made their debut in June 2013 with the single “2 COOL 4 SKOOL.” The septet has since established world records and even entered the Guinness World Records Hall of Fame.

In June 2022, the group announced that they’re taking a break to focus on solo releases while other members enlist in the military. 

They marked their 10th anniversary in 2023 with the release of their book Beyond The Story: 10th Year Record of BTS 

Featured image: BTS in their promotional content for the ‘BTS WORLD’ game app. Credit: Twitter/Newmarble

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Look: Former UNI.T’s Lee Suji Is Getting Married

Lee Suji updates fans with new photos. Credit: Instagram/Suji

Wedding bells are soon to ring for Lee Suji, a former member of the girl group Uni.T, as she announced that she’s tying the knot in October. 

On Tuesday, September 5, Suji happily shared the news through her personal Instagram account. The singer-actress expressed her gratitude through a heartfelt handwritten letter.

“I have met someone that loves me without change, and I will marry in October this year. Since I was young, I had wanted to meet someone that was like my dad. My groom-to-be is someone that is friendly, detailed and has a warm heart, like my dad.” Sooji’s translated post read.

Additionally, the idol relayed how much she’s looking forward to starting a new chapter in her life. “I can’t wait for my life as part of a family in the future. More than anything else, I’m so happy to know that the power of love is bigger than anything else,” she said. 

Moreover, Suji also thanked the fans who have supported and cheered on every single moment of her life.  “Although this small letter cannot contain even an ounce of my gratitude… I’d be so thankful if you would congratulate me. I love you all so much,” the singer said as she finished her message.

Congratulations Lee Suji!

Suji’s Instagram post was flooded with hearts and congratulatory messages from numerous celebrities, including her former Uni.T bandmates and friend group “98-line”.

Lee Hyun-Joo, who was also from Uni.T, commented: “Congratulations my dear Suji.” 

Former GFriend and now Viviz members SinB and Umji, also part of the 98-line, both expressed their excitement over the news. SinB’s translated comment said, “I’m the happiest,” while Umji wrote: “Still kicking a lot! Congratulations.” 

 

Another 98-liner, actress Ha Da-Bin, also congratulated the singer. “I love and adore you my precious Suji. My Suji must be the happiest,” she said. 

Meanwhile, her “unnies” (older sisters) in Uni.T,  Euijin and Yoonjo,  also sent their best wishes to Suji, who was the “maknae” (youngest) in the group.

Lee Suji’s career as a singer and an actress

Lee Suji first debuted in 2015 as a member of The Ark under the stage name Halla. After the group disbanded in early 2016, she became a part of another girl group, Uni.T. 

 

To recall, Uni.T was a nine-member project girl group formed through KBS’s survival show The Unit. The group debuted on May 18, 2018 with the mini album Line. Unfortunately, Uni.T ended their activities and disbanded on October 12, 2018.

Apart from her singing career, Suji also ventured into the world of acting. She has starred in a number of drama series including her lead role in Handmade Love (2020) and a supporting role in Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency (2019).

Featured image: Lee Suji updates fans with new photos. Credit: Instagram/Suji

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Why SEVENTEEN’s New Japanese Track Feels Familiar to J-Pop Fans

The Japanese music scene is unique in the sense that greatest hits albums are a dime a dozen. This trend isn’t commonly seen in other countries, but it extends even to K-pop acts. SEVENTEEN’s new track “Ima – Even If The World Ends Tomorrow” is a prime example of that. Extracted from the group’s first greatest hits album, this track marks a significant milestone in their illustrious career. Interestingly, while the track was produced by their usual crew—Bumzu, Woozi, and Hwang Hyun, it sounds like it could’ve come from a J-pop artist. 

SEVENTEEN (Ima -Even if the world ends tomorrow-) Official MV

About SEVENTEEN’s new Japanese track

“Ima – Even If The World Ends Tomorrow” incorporates elements of Japan’s vibrant rock scene, with its emphasis on guitars and instrumental sections. Its fast tempo, guitar solo, and melodic flow are reminiscent of anime opening songs. But what makes this track remarkable is its breezy, almost spontaneous vibe. That makes it unlike any other song in SEVENTEEN’s catalog, even their previous Japanese-language releases.

Meanwhile, AKB48, a household name in the J-pop industry, is characterized by its unique sound. It has been described as being built on catchy melodies and harmonious vocals. Their songs are usually about friendship, positivity, and youth. Their stage presence is enhanced by energetic choreography that appeals to a wide demographic. Like SEVENTEEN, their discography spans genres, from ballads to pop-rock. 

Drawing a parallel between the two groups and their respective sonic palettes, both AKB48 and the Pledis Entertainment boy group prioritize catchiness and positivity in their work. Furthermore, both use their large roster to their advantage. Many of AKB48’s songs are aligned with Japan’s rich rock music legacy, and “Ima – Even If The World Ends Tomorrow” is in that vein too.

It’s very J-pop

Its J-pop influence is palpable—and that hasn’t escaped the keen ears of AKB48 devotees. When it was performed on Japanese music show CDTV for the first time, they took to social media to say it echoes the AKB48 sound. One fan even called SEVENTEEN an all-male version of AKB48.

Some drew parallels to the group’s classics, while others said it’s reminiscent of their 61st single, “Doushitemo Kimi ga Sukida.” Notably, the center of that song was Honda Hitomi, a Japanese idol who was in the K-pop girl group IZ*ONE from 2018 to 2021.

Some also suggested that SEVENTEEN’s new Japanese-language hit sounds like music from groups handled by Johnny & Associates, a prestigious entertainment agency in Japan. It specializes in boy groups like Hey! Say! JUMP, Naniwa Danshi, Snow Man, Six Tones, Travis Japan, and more.

Both the AKB48 sound and SEVENTEEN‘s “Ima – Even If The World Ends Tomorrow” perfectly capture the lively, optimistic spirit of J-pop. That means it has the potential to do really well in the Japanese music charts. After all, it has all the elements J-pop lovers want to hear in the music they listen to. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: SEVENTEEN posed for a groufie after performing on CDTV, a top Japanese music show. Source: Twitter/@pledis_17jp.

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tripleS Wins First ROTY Award at the Brand of the Year Awards

The 2023 Brand of the Year Awards, held on September 4, was a dazzling display of South Korea‘s best and brightest in entertainment. Organized by the Korean Consumer Forum, this event honors those who have significantly impacted brand value, based on factors like consumer votes and expert insights. This year, the ceremony celebrated a diverse group of stars—K-drama actors, K-pop idols,  radio DJs, and even YouTubers. With over 8,019,000 voters participating in online and phone-based surveys, the winners truly represented the voice of the general consumers.

Among the evening’s highlights was the crowning of tripleS as winners of the Female Rookie Award. This accolade is a testament to the indelible mark they’ve made since debuting. Their success story is further echoed by a fan’s comment on Reddit, stating, “Deserved, they had an insane year. I hope they’re proud of themselves for all they’ve achieved in such a short but significant period of time!”

In addition to tripleS‘ big win, other notable winners included BLACKPINK‘s Jisoo for Female Solo Artist and Lim Young Woong for Male Solo Artist. The K-drama segment saw Kim So Yeon and Lee Dong Wook bagging top honors for their roles in the acclaimed Tale of the Nine-Tailed 1938. The award ceremony also highlighted comedians, MCs, radio DJs, and variety shows.

What’s next for tripleS?

Their fans can look forward to seeing the tripleS subunit Acid Angel from Asia (AAA) attend the 29th Chungcheongnam-do ParaGames on September 7 at 6:00 PM KST. As confirmed by the tripleS Discord server, they’ll be performing at this particular event.

tripleS AAA, Generation [THE SHOW 221115]

AAA made waves with their debut on October 28, 2022. Comprising Gong Yubin, Jeong Hyerin, Kim Yooyeon, and Kim Nakyoung, their mini album <ACCESS> achieved commercial and critical success. Notably, “Generation” was nominated for first place on SBS M’s The Show, and <ACCESS> got the No. 1 spot on the iTunes US K-pop album chart.

However, it’s not all celebrations for the group. The debut album of tripleS‘s sub-unit EVOLution, initially slated for release on October 4 KST, has been postponed to October 11. The delay is due to the Asian Games and Chuseok holiday. Despite this unfortunate twist in their schedules, EVOLution, featuring Kamimoto Kotone, Kim Chaeyeon, Kim Nakyoung, Kim Soomin, Kim Yooyeon, Koma Mayu, Kwak Yeonji, and Lee Jiwoo, promises to be another feather in tripleS’ cap. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The girls achieved so much in a short time. Source: Twitter/@tripleSGLOBAL.

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Genius Korea Uploads Full Transcript of RM’s ‘Intersections’ Interview

Last year, RM, the charismatic leader of the globally acclaimed K-pop group BTS, candidly discussed his deep connection to art on Intersections: The Art Basel Podcast. With Genius Korea recently providing fans a comprehensive transcription of this conversation, we now have a deeper insight into RM’s artistic journey.

Broadcasting from his studio in Seoul, RM, whose real name is Kim Namjoon, shared glimpses of his personal space. “I’m in Seoul, because I live in South Korea, Seoul. And here it’s seven pm. I’m in my studio, this is our label studio. It’s my little studio—and there’s a little painting back over there, so, yeah.”

How RM developed a love for visual art

RM’s foray into the world of art began with a transformative visit to the Chicago Art Institute in 2018. “Yeah, I remember how it started. It was in 2018 which was four years ago,” he reminisced. Not being a club person and having limited friends abroad, RM utilized his free time during tours to explore museums and galleries. This lit a fire in his heart, leading him to admire artists like Monet, Picasso, and Seurat. The thrill of seeing their works in person was evident in his voice.

Discussing the longevity and impact visual artists have, RM shared, “I really love to use expressions a lot, I don’t like to divide the art world, but when I see the painters and the artists; most of them get their fame after their death.” This perspective has influenced his own approach to creativity, as well as the kind of legacy he hopes to leave behind.

As his appreciation for art deepened, he began collecting pieces. His first acquisition was a painting by Korean artist Daiwon Lee. The joy of owning art resonated deeply with him. “Actually, I think it already started by collecting. I think, okay, I have this precious piece in my home and I see it every day; I wake up every day in front of it.”

As the conversation neared its end, RM unveiled plans for a unique personal project. “I’m planning to make a small space of my own private collection and just make a café on the first floor, and set up my collection on the second and third floors. People could always see the collections when they just want to see them.”

His impact on the Korean art scene

RM‘s relationship with art showcases his multifaceted personality. His fervor for art, coupled with his global influence, has introduced a new generation to the world of visual arts. That has brought a lot of joy to those who have been part of the scene for a long time.

Jini Yang, the director of an art gallery called White Cube Seoul, is one of those people. In a recent interview with Vogue Korea, she talked about the evolving Korean art scene. She gave the leader of BTS credit for playing a part in that evolution. 

“The Korean art scene is characterized by deep connections with both the local and the global,” she told the media outlet. “It’s heartwarming to see a broader audience enjoying art, just like people adding the County Museum of Art to their LA travel itinerary to listen to RM‘s audio guide.”

White Cube Seoul is located in the upscale Gangnam-gu district. It’s housed in the same building as the private Horim Art Centre, known for its collection of Korean Modern art and antiquities. Maybe, just maybe, you can bump into RM there if ever you’re in Seoul. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Visual art is a subject he takes very seriously. Source: Instagram/@rkive.

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