RM, leader of K-pop powerhouse BTS, has been appointed as the first global ambassador of the National Museum of Korea, the country’s largest museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Korean art and history.

Through his new role, RM will help promote Korean cultural heritage to audiences around the world in collaboration with the museum.

The appointment recognizes RM’s long-standing passion for Korean traditional art and culture. The BTS member has previously supported efforts to preserve Korean heritage, donating 100 million won (approximately $65,352) each in 2021 and 2022 to the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation under the National Heritage Administration.

RM requested that his donations be used to preserve, restore, and help promote Korean cultural artifacts located overseas.

Known as an art collector, RM is also set to showcase his personal collection in a special exhibition at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) in the United States in October.

Following his appointment as promotional ambassador on June 19, RM visited the National Museum of Korea, where he toured the exhibition “Danwon Kim Hong-do, Painting the Era” at the Calligraphy and Painting Room on the second floor of the museum’s permanent exhibition hall.

He was accompanied by Yoo Hong-joon, director of the National Museum of Korea. The exhibition highlights the works of Kim Hong-do, a renowned painter from the Joseon Dynasty.

Expressing his gratitude for the appointment, RM said he hopes to help share the importance and beauty of Korean cultural heritage with more people worldwide.

“I am very happy. I will work together to ensure that the beauty and value of our cultural heritage are conveyed to more people,” RM said.

Yoo Hong-joon also welcomed RM’s appointment, saying it was meaningful to share Korea’s cultural heritage with the world through the global influence of the BTS leader.

“I look forward to him playing a significant role in establishing the National Museum of Korea as a museum loved by people around the globe,” Yoo said.

With RM’s appointment, the National Museum of Korea hopes to further expand its global reach and introduce Korean history, art, and traditions to a wider international audience.

BTS' RM and National Museum of Korea Director Yoo Hong-joon viewing the Kim Hong-do exhibition (Photo from the museum's Facebook page)

The National Museum of Korea (Photo from the museum's Facebook page)

BTS' RM (right) with National Museum of Korea Director Yoo Hong-joon (Photo from the museum's Facebook page)