BTS Leader RM Named National Museum of Korea's First Global PR Ambassador

 

The National Museum of Korea has turned to one of the country's most influential cultural figures to expand its international reach, appointing BTS leader Kim Namjoon, widely recognized as RM, as its inaugural Global Public Relations Ambassador.

The appointment marks the first time in the institution's history that such a role has been created. More than a ceremonial title, the move reflects the museum's broader ambition to position Korean heritage within contemporary global conversations.

RM formalized the partnership on June 19 through an official signing ceremony. Following the event, he toured several of the museum's galleries and exhibitions with National Museum of Korea director You Hong-jun.

Among the displays he explored was Kim Hongdo: Painting His Era, a featured seasonal exhibition highlighting the legacy of one of Korea's most celebrated painters. He also viewed Amazing Thailand: Masterpieces of Thai Art, an upcoming exhibition that underscores the museum's growing emphasis on cultural exchange across Asia.

As part of the occasion, RM received a miniature reproduction of the Daedongyeojido scroll, the renowned historical map that meticulously depicts the Korean Peninsula. The symbolic gift served as a reminder that cultural artifacts are more than relics of the past. They function as bridges between generations, preserving identity while inviting new interpretations from modern audiences.

The museum stated that RM's role will focus on introducing the value and artistic richness of Korea's cultural heritage to people around the world. The institution emphasized its commitment to connecting history with contemporary society and expanding opportunities for international audiences to engage with Korean art and traditions.

The selection of RM aligns naturally with his longstanding interest in preserving and promoting Korean culture. Beyond his achievements as a global music icon, he has consistently supported heritage initiatives. He previously donated 100 million won, approximately P4 million, on two separate occasions to the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation, contributing to efforts aimed at safeguarding and studying Korean cultural assets abroad.

His involvement in the arts also extends into the museum world beyond Korea. Later this year, RM is scheduled to present a special exhibition featuring pieces from his personal collection at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. The exhibition will open while BTS is in the midst of its extensive Arirang world tour across South America.

Meanwhile, anticipation surrounding the group's return to the stage remains exceptionally high. The Arirang tour is currently expected to conclude with a three-night engagement at the Philippine Arena in March, with all scheduled performances selling out shortly after tickets became available.

In appointing RM as its first Global Public Relations Ambassador, the National Museum of Korea is acknowledging a modern reality. Cultural diplomacy no longer resides solely within government institutions and academic circles. Artists with global influence increasingly shape how nations tell their stories, allowing heritage to reach audiences far beyond museum walls.