Tag: Kim Namjoon

International

BTS’ RM to Make History as First Korean Artist to Address APEC CEO Summit

Tanisha Cardozo

BTS leader Kim Namjoon, popularly known as RM, is set to make history as the first Korean artist to deliver a keynote address at the APEC CEO Summit 2025 on October 29. RM’s session, scheduled from 3:05 PM to 3:15 PM, will focus on “Cultural and Creative Industries in the APEC Region and the Soft Power of K-Culture.”

According to APEC’s official program, RM will speak during a special cultural session on the summit’s second day. APEC introduced him as “a creative powerhouse and avid art enthusiast, renowned for crafting profound lyrics inspired by art and philosophy.” His thoughtful and globally resonant perspective has made him one of the most influential cultural figures of his generation.

RM’s participation marks a groundbreaking moment for the global music industry, making him the first K-pop artist to appear as a speaker at the summit.

The APEC CEO Summit, which gathers heads of state and business leaders from 21 economies, will explore transformative industries shaping the future of the global economy under the theme “Beyond Business, Bridge.”

HYBE, BTS’s parent company and the only entertainment brand participating as a Diamond Sponsor, will showcase its international business network and K-pop culture at the Gyeongju Arts Center.

On the work front, RM is preparing for BTS’s highly anticipated comeback album, their first as a full group in four years. The record, currently in production in the U.S., is slated for release in spring next year.

With this address, RM not only represents K-pop’s global reach but also highlights the growing role of creative industries in shaping diplomacy, business, and cross-cultural understanding.

Music

BTS’ RM, V, and J-Hope Party with Tyler, the Creator at His Seoul Concert

Tanisha Cardozo

BTS members RM, V, and J-Hope were spotted letting loose and fully immersed in the vibe at Tyler, the Creator’s Seoul concert. Held at a packed venue, the event saw the three BTS members dancing in the fan pit, smiling and laughing together, and soaking in the energy of the night. The moment quickly turned viral across social media as the trio posted photos and videos with Tyler and CORTIS member James, who was also in attendance.

RM, dressed in a relaxed blue sweatshirt and black shorts, was seen singing along and filming the performance. J-Hope, in a sleek black vest with matching pants, danced and shared a video of Tyler on stage. V, casually styled in a brown T-shirt and jeans, added a heartfelt touch to the evening by donning a T-shirt seemingly gifted by Tyler and giving him a warm shoutout via Instagram. In a playful message, V wrote, “Thanks for the gift 💕🙏 And welcome to Korea! I’m having a Mom’s Touch burger tonight, you’ve got to try it too.”

Tyler, the Creator didn’t miss a beat either. During his performance, he gave a playful shoutout to a local favorite, saying, “Y’all guess what I had for lunch? I had Mama’s Touch. What are you all doing out here? That stuff is absolutely delicious.” V followed up by sharing a photo of the same burger on his Instagram Story with a simple caption: “Mama’s Touch.”

Photos of the night, including the group posing by the stage, were later shared by CORTIS’ official Instagram, captioned, “Watching the GOAT with the GOATs,” tagging @rkive, @uarmyhope, @thv, and @feliciathegoat.

Notably absent from the concert were BTS members Jin, Suga, Jimin, and Jungkook, who are currently tied up with individual schedules. Jin and Jungkook are especially busy with their own events. However, all seven members — RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook — are now back in production mode, working on a full group album in the U.S. since July. The highly anticipated record, expected to drop in Spring 2026, will mark BTS’ first full group comeback since their 2022 album Proof.

With music, laughter, and international camaraderie, the Seoul concert wasn’t just another show—it became a fan-fueled cultural moment, signaling that the BTS members continue to make their mark, both on and off the stage.