RM, also known as Kim Nam-joon, has made history as the first K-pop artist to deliver a keynote address at the prestigious Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit in Gyeongju. The BTS leader took the stage on October 29, joining world leaders and top industry executives in a rare honor typically reserved for policymakers and business tycoons.
During his speech, RM emphasized his identity as an artist rather than a business leader. “I am just an artist. I am not a business leader, so today, I want to speak to you as a creator and an artist,” he said during the session themed “Cultural and Creative Industries and the Soft Power of K-Culture in the APEC Region.”
RM highlighted the global influence of K-pop and Korean culture, citing BTS’s fanbase, ARMY, as a prime example of cultural solidarity that transcends borders. “When cultural barriers come down and different voices harmonize together, there’s an explosion of creative energy. This is why K-Pop is loved everywhere,” he explained.
The BTS leader also used a unique analogy to explain K-pop’s worldwide appeal, comparing it to bibimbap, the traditional Korean dish that blends diverse ingredients into one harmonious meal. RM stated, “K-pop is like bibimbap, combining influences from all over the world to create something universally loved.”
HYBE, BTS’s parent company, also participated in the summit as an official sponsor, featuring a promotional booth celebrating fan-driven K-pop culture. Iconic elements like BTS’s light sticks, a staple of global concerts, were highlighted, demonstrating the immense power of fandom in shaping the global music landscape.
RM’s keynote signifies a historic moment for K-pop and Korean culture, cementing BTS’s influence on the global stage beyond music. By speaking to policymakers and executives, RM underscored the role of art and creativity in driving cultural exchange, diplomacy, and soft power worldwide.
