BTS’s RM became the center of a heated debate after his recent appearance at the APEC CEO Summit 2025, where he gave a speech emphasizing creativity, cultural collaboration and the growing global influence of K culture.
The event’s cultural session, titled “Cultural and Creative Industries in the APEC Region and the Soft Power of K-Culture,” brought together artists, business leaders and politicians to discuss how Asian creativity continues to shape the world. RMParticipation was seen as symbolic and not just representative BTS but also South Korea’s cultural impact on the global stage.
In his speech, RM he emphasized the importance of artistic freedom and intercultural understanding, stating: “I hope that creators everywhere can find support, not restrictions. True creativity thrives when it is allowed to breathe freely.”
Initially, the commentary was widely praised for its inclusiveness and thoughtful tone. However, as the quote circulated on social media, it quickly took on a different life. Critics began to accuse the BTS leader of “hypocrisy”, claiming that his words contradicted his past remarks and his agency’s practices, HYBE Corporation.
Within hours, online communities like Theqoo, Nate Pann, and Twitter/X were flooded with conflicting opinions. Some users have resurfaced old clips of RM discuss BTSparticularly his claims that the group “paves the way” for other Asian artists.
Others have gone further, linking the controversy to recent surrounding scandals MOVESincluding allegations of corporate monopolization and conflicts with smaller agencies. Some accused RM to “speak about fairness by representing the least fair company in K-pop.”
- It’s hard to take him seriously when he once boasted that BTS was the only one making K-pop global.
- He is an outspoken narcissist, always bragging about himself and discrediting smaller artists. Don’t let the media fool you, he has no humility or respect for others.
- He disrespects other groups by claiming that his group “paved the way,” which is a lie. His company leverages social issues, mental health, queerbaiting and parasocial relationships to market his group. He and his company have no right to speak.
- I would take it a lot more seriously if it wasn’t there arm in arm with its CEO who mistreats his artists and is under investigation for massive financial fraud.
- RM made it seem like no one knew Korea when they debuted. The lack of respect for Korean artists who introduced the world to Kpop like Wonder Girls and PSY 😭
In the meantime, RM‘s supporters rushed to his defense. Many pointed out that his comments had been taken out of context, arguing that the idol’s statement reflected a long-standing belief in cultural cooperation. Fans pointed this out RM it often uses its global platform to promote art, philosophy and inclusivity rather than engage in competition.
“He wasn’t being hypocritical, he was talking about how far Korean culture has come and how it should now uplift others,” commented one international fan.
This controversy highlights the delicate position RM occupies both as an artist and as a cultural representative. As the leader of the world’s biggest K-pop group, his every public statement comes under a microscope. While Western artists often receive praise for idealistic speeches, K-pop idols like it RM they are held to a much more rigorous standard, where words and actions are constantly compared for consistency.
In many ways, RMThe situation reflects the tension between authentic expression and audience expectations. His speeches often blend sincerity and philosophical reflection, but in an era where fandom, media, and critics are hyperconnected, even a single sentence can trigger polarized reactions.
Sources: Koreaboo
