RM
Artist

RM

Kim Nam-joon, widely known by his stage name RM (formerly Rap Monster), is a prominent South Korean rapper, songwriter, and record producer born on September 12, 1994. RM rose to international fame as the leader of the globally acclaimed boy band BTS, under Big Hit Music. Renowned for his profound lyricism, articulate rapping, and influential… Read More

About RM

Kim Nam-joon, widely known by his stage name RM (formerly Rap Monster), is a prominent South Korean rapper, songwriter, and record producer born on September 12, 1994. RM rose to international fame as the leader of the globally acclaimed boy band BTS, under Big Hit Music. Renowned for his profound lyricism, articulate rapping, and influential leadership, RM has significantly shaped the landscape of contemporary K-pop and global music.

Born in Sangdo-dong, Seoul, and raised in Ilsan District, Goyang, RM displayed exceptional intellectual and creative abilities from an early age. With an IQ of 148, he excelled academically, ranking in the top 1% of South Korea’s university entrance examinations. Despite his academic prowess, RM harbored a deep passion for hip-hop, which was sparked by Epik High’s song “Fly” and further fueled by his discovery of Eminem’s music. At the age of 11, he began writing poetry, winning numerous awards and gaining recognition online. His poetic talents naturally transitioned into songwriting as he delved into the underground hip-hop scene under the moniker Runch Randa, collaborating with notable figures like Zico.

In 2010, RM joined Big Hit Entertainment (now Big Hit Music), becoming the first member of what would later become BTS. The group’s debut in 2013 marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that saw them rise to unprecedented global fame. As BTS’s leader, RM played a pivotal role in shaping the group’s musical direction, contributing extensively to their songwriting and production. His linguistic proficiency, notably in English, often positioned him as the spokesperson for BTS during international engagements.

RM’s solo career began with the release of his first mixtape, RM, in 2015. His second mixtape, Mono (2018), achieved significant success, peaking at number 26 on the Billboard 200, the highest for a Korean soloist at the time. This was followed by his official solo debut with the album Indigo in 2022, featuring collaborations with artists like Erykah Badu and Anderson .Paak. Indigo peaked at number three on the Billboard 200, setting a new record for Korean soloists.

Throughout his career, RM has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, including Wale, Warren G, Fall Out Boy, and Lil Nas X, showcasing his versatility and global appeal. His artistry has earned him accolades and recognition, including promotion to a full member of the Korea Music Copyright Association in 2020. RM’s baritone voice, adept flow, and thought-provoking lyrics have garnered praise from critics and fans alike, with publications like XXL and the South China Morning Post acknowledging his significant contributions to music.

Beyond music, RM has been an influential figure in cultural diplomacy. In 2018, he and BTS received the Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit from the President of South Korea for their efforts in spreading Korean culture. In 2021, they were appointed Special Presidential Envoys for Future Generations and Culture, tasked with promoting sustainable growth and enhancing South Korea’s global standing.

In 2023, RM was appointed as the Public Relations Ambassador for South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense Agency Remains Excavation and Investigation Team, reflecting his commitment to honoring the legacy of Korean War veterans. As he continues to evolve as an artist and individual, RM remains a powerful voice for self-expression and cultural exchange, inspiring millions worldwide with his message of resilience and authenticity.

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