Why BTS Leader RM Was Removed from a Key Role Model List: The Controversy Explained
BTS's RM Faces Backlash Over Role Model Status
Kim Nam Jun, popularly known as RM, the leader of the iconic boy band BTS, has been taken off the Pixel Project's list of 16 male role models aimed at fighting violence against women. This decision comes in light of criticism regarding RM's connection to singer Chris Brown, who has a controversial past, including a 2009 incident involving an assault on his then-girlfriend, Rihanna. RM and fellow BTS member J-Hope were seen at a concert with Usher and Chris Brown, which led to backlash due to Brown's history.
The Pixel Project clarified that RM was initially included in their 2024 list based on a positive assessment of his public persona and advocacy work. They recognized RM's efforts to combat internalized misogyny, support women in the arts, and speak against violence in South Korea's patriarchal culture. However, the organization expressed disappointment over RM's silence regarding the backlash from his association with Brown, stating they had awaited a response from him for a week before deciding to remove him from the list.
The Pixel Project underscored BTS's significant impact on global pop culture, noting that their actions have far-reaching implications and that they are seen as role models. They emphasized that while male role models do not need to be flawless, they must take responsibility for their actions, particularly when those actions could lead to harm or disappointment. The decision by RM and J-Hope to be seen with Brown was labeled as irresponsible, given Brown's well-documented history of violence against women.
Consequently, RM has been indefinitely removed from the Pixel Project's list. As of now, neither RM, J-Hope, nor their agency, HYBE, have made any public comments regarding the controversy or the organization's decision. This incident has ignited a wider conversation about the influence of celebrities, accountability, and the responsibilities that accompany global fame.