BTS Jungkook and RM News

Two members of BTS are making headlines by setting new records and establishing their status in their respective fields. Jungkook achieved a remarkable record by staying on the Billboard Global Chart for 152 weeks, becoming the first Asian solo artist to do so. This achievement is seen as proof of his enduring musical influence and the passionate support of his global fandom.

At the same time, leader RM was officially appointed as the National Museum of Korea's first 'Global Ambassador' since its opening. Known as a prominent 'art lover' in the entertainment industry, RM had informally served as a 'cultural envoy' for years, but this appointment marks official national recognition. Netizens reacted with witty comments, calling it a 'late but deserved' recognition of his past contributions.

During the appointment ceremony, the museum gifted RM a special edition scroll of Kim Jeong-ho's 'Dae Dong Ye Ji Do' (Complete Map of Korea), encouraging the 'path of the cultural map' he will expand. RM is recognized as a heavyweight in the modern art world, often referred to as an 'art patron' and 'art innovator' by international media. In October, he will host a 'Special Collection Exhibition' at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, an unprecedented project where a K-pop artist partners with a world-class museum to showcase over 150 works by Korean artists.

RM has also taken the lead in preserving traditional cultural heritage. He donated a total of 200 million won (100 million won each in 2021 and 2022) to the Foundation for Overseas Cultural Heritage, contributing to the preservation and restoration of the Joseon Royal Court's 'Hwalot' (royal robe), for which he received a certificate of appreciation from the Cultural Heritage Administration.

RM's status is expected to increase the possibility of official collaboration with the National Museum of Korea's cultural merchandise brand 'Muz'. In fact, the 'Smiling Bodhisattva Miniature' from Muz sold out after news broke that RM had purchased one, raising expectations for synergy between the two institutions. Jungkook's chart record and RM's new beginning as a cultural ambassador are expected to further elevate BTS's global status.