RM, the leader of the global K-pop sensation BTS, recently sat down with writer Fiona Bae for 032c magazine’s Winter 2023/24 issue. Known for his introspective nature, RM delved into his search for identity, his mission in life, and the transformative power of music.
In the interview, RM candidly discussed the personal and professional challenges he has faced since releasing his latest solo album Indigo. He expressed how these experiences have led him to realize that the person he thought he was doesn’t truly exist. This revelation highlights RM‘s continuous journey of self-discovery and growth.
When asked about how he defines himself, RM‘s response was introspective. “That’s a good question. I’m not a narcissistic person and I’ve always been driven by my own insecurity. I’m a person who has so much dirt, filth, love, kindness, and consideration in me that I feel I would go insane if I didn’t bring it out candidly, into the world, in some way. And I’m a person who wants to change something, whether it’s myself, people around me, the industry, or the world. I feel like I’m born to transform something, and I think I’ve done it once with BTS.”
Music saves
RM is motivated by a strong sense of purpose. He talked about the impact of his influence and his attempts to turn his personal experiences into something universal through his art.
“Some people question why I do it, but at the end of the day, if you don’t wear the crown, you don’t understand. It’s not a crown that I asked for, but I try to stay positive and use my influence,” he shared. “What I should do is to take the most beautiful thing about my art and turn my personal individuality into universality. It’s beautiful to see people laughing and crying because artists made their stories universal and cosmic.”
He shared a powerful moment at a concert where a fan’s emotional reaction to the music deeply impacted him. “When I went to the concert of Kim Yuna, the leader of the band Jaurim, I heard a fan screaming in tears, ‘I didn’t kill myself because of you!’ I have received positive messages about how people had benefited from my music before, but hearing this right next to me was profound. I realized music can really save people. That’s what I want to do. I couldn’t survive in BTS without that calling. If I didn’t have a calling, I’d die.”
RM on being a superstar
RM reflected on his experience as a superstar. He also touched on all the challenges that come with being in the Korean music industry, emphasizing the need for more honesty and openness.
“The other day, I happened to see the four habits of happy people on Instagram. I really hate that kind of self-help stuff. But then I realized that I was saying all the four phrases mentioned there. Perhaps I am happy. I also try to let stuff out, and I’m getting better at it, but the hardest part is the industry’s atmosphere. It’s kind of sad to admit this, but people are so conscious of others, and many see only what they want. But I’ve done this for ten to eleven years now. I think it’s the right direction to move, where people like me, with some power, are a bit more honest. It’s a time when more honesty is celebrated.”
RM‘s latest interview offers a rare glimpse into the mind of one of K-pop’s most influential figures. His thoughtful reflections provide a deeper understanding of the man behind the music. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: RM always gives the best interviews because he comes up with very good answers to reporters’ questions. Source: Instagram/@rkive.
