BTS Leader RM Discusses Life, Art, and Leadership Insights in Recent Podcast

RM's Thoughtful Reflections on Life and Leadership

During a recent podcast, RM, the leader of BTS, showcased his deep insights and thoughtful nature. The discussion covered various topics, including leadership, the balance between public and private life, his passion for art, and the significance of routines. He also shared his views on self-discipline, his ideal partner, and the values instilled in him by his parents, providing fans with a glimpse into the man behind the global icon. His candid and reflective responses have ignited conversations online, with many considering this interview one of his most profound and comforting.

Lessons from His Parents

RM on learning balance from his parents

In his appearance on Fashion Neurosis, RM discussed the influence of his parents on his life choices. He revealed that his father had aspirations of becoming a cartoonist but had to abandon that dream due to financial constraints, which made him particularly supportive of RM's musical ambitions. His mother, on the other hand, emphasized the importance of stability and advised him against unnecessary risks. RM expressed, "I've learned the balance from my parents," noting that he often felt like "a small clock pin going back and forth" between their differing viewpoints. He concluded by praising them as exceptional parents.

Fashion and Stendhal Syndrome

Experiencing Stendhal syndrome through fashion

RM recounted a moment of what he termed "Stendhal syndrome" after visiting a Rick Owens store in Seoul. Although he couldn't afford any items, the store's sculptures and dark aesthetic left a profound impact on him. "That was the first time that I got... a Stendhal syndrome for clothes," he remarked, noting that it transformed his perception of the color black. He also admired Rick Owens' philosophy, highlighting a favorite quote about how those who don't prioritize fashion can still be considered "hot."

Navigating Fame and Privacy

RM on balancing identity, privacy, normalcy

RM reflected on the ongoing challenge of determining how much of himself to share with the public. He described his life as "an undercover," still figuring out "what to show and what to hide." He emphasized that music is the truest form of self-expression for him, stating, "The best way to reveal your real things is the art itself. For me, it's music." He also acknowledged that social media has impacted his reading habits, making it increasingly difficult to focus on books. "Even watching a film in a theatre with my phone on airplane mode now feels like a luxury," he added.

The Struggle of Leadership

RM on redefining leadership over the years

RM shared insights into how his leadership style has evolved. He admitted to being more "bossy" in BTS's early days but has since adapted his communication as the members developed their own identities. He explained that true leadership is about stepping up when needed rather than exerting authority. Using a metaphor, he compared leadership to someone getting off a couch to close a cold window, illustrating the responsibility leaders have for their teams. Fans resonated with this analogy, praising it as one of the interview's key takeaways.

The Joy of Teamwork

RM expressed that the love and support he receives from his bandmates make the challenges of leadership worthwhile. "When they tell me, 'I know your effort and I'm really happy to have a leader like you,' all those stress, they're gone," he shared. He described the bond he shares with the other members, noting that he has spent 15 years with them, affectionately calling seven BTS's "lucky number."

Discovering Art Through V

RM on discovering art through V

RM revealed that it was V, also known as Kim Taehyung, who introduced him to museums in 2018, igniting his passion for art. Initially uninterested, RM found the experience transformative, stating, "That's how I just got into it," which helped shape his artistic preferences over time.

Insights on the Album ARIRANG

RM describes ARIRANG as 'confusing' album, credits Jungkook, J-Hope for Hooligan

RM characterized ARIRANG as "a very confusing album," noting the difficulties BTS faced in aligning their visions and tastes. He admitted to feeling "very confused" and constantly questioning the meaning of sophistication. He expressed gratitude towards J-Hope and Jungkook for their contributions to the song Hooligan, highlighting their role in creating its title and toplines, and referred to himself as "a very, very lucky person" for having such supportive bandmates.

RM's Ideal Partner

RM reveals the kind of person he could fall in love with

RM shared that he is attracted to individuals with a sense of duality, someone who can oscillate between seriousness and playfulness. He believes such contrasting traits would lead to a fulfilling relationship. "I find such a rizz when I see somebody's very duality," he noted, enjoying conversations that can shift from serious topics to lighthearted debates. He also discussed his second studio album, Right Place, Wrong Person, calling it his favorite solo work, and remarked on the theme of feeling like the "wrong person in the right place," despite the connectedness of the modern world.