Full Breakdown
BTS’s RM Appointed Global Ambassador for the National Museum of Korea
6/20/2026, 10:09:00 PM
Appointment Overview
On 19 May 2024, RM (Kim Nam-joon), leader of BTS, was named the first global ambassador of the National Museum of Korea. The ceremony at the museum included a tour of the “Danwon Kim Hong-do: Painting an Era” exhibition. The role tasks RM with promoting Korean traditional culture at home and abroad.
Background & Context
The museum, South Korea’s leading cultural institution, has never before appointed a global ambassador. RM’s selection follows his long-standing support for heritage preservation, including a 200 million-won donation for the conservation of Joseon-era wedding robes and involvement in a catalog of Korean paintings. The funded restoration preserved a rare example of royal ceremonial attire from the Joseon period. His contributions have previously supported the conservation of cultural assets overseas, reinforcing his commitment to heritage preservation. His cultural advocacy bridges pop music and historic art.
Timeline & Key Activities
- 19 May 2024 – Appointment ceremony and museum tour.
- 20 May 2024 – Public announcement of the ambassadorship.
- 4 May – 2 Aug 2024 – “Danwon Kim Hong-do: Painting an Era” exhibition, which RM visited.
- October 2024 – RM to open a special exhibition of his art collection at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.
Data & Statistics
- RM donated 200 million won for overseas cultural-property preservation.
- The museum presented him with a “Daedongyeojido Scroll Special Edition,” a miniature replica of the historic Korean map.
Why It Matters
The partnership leverages RM’s global fanbase to raise international awareness of Korean heritage. Aligning a worldwide pop icon with a national museum aims to attract younger audiences and boost the museum’s global profile.
Official Statements & Responses
The museum’s director said the collaboration will help share Korean cultural beauty worldwide and expects RM to help the museum become a beloved institution globally. RM expressed enthusiasm for the ambassadorship, pledging to work toward broader appreciation of Korea’s cultural legacy.
Criticism & Opposition
No dissenting viewpoints or criticism were reported in the sources.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am pleased to be appointed as ambassador,” — RM, leader of BTS
- “It is meaningful to be able to share the beauty of our cultural heritage with the world together with BTS RM,” — Yoo Hongjun, Director, National Museum of Korea
- “I expect that RM will play a significant role in helping the National Museum of Korea become a museum loved by people around the world.” — Yoo Hongjun
- “I am very pleased to be appointed as the global ambassador for the National Museum of Korea,” — RM
What’s Next
RM will continue promotional activities for the museum, including further exhibition tours and digital outreach to international audiences. The “Danwon Kim Hong-do” exhibition runs until 2 August 2024, providing a platform for his cultural advocacy.
