RM, the leader of BTS, took the stage at the APEC CEO Summit 2025 held in Seoul, delivering an inspiring speech during the cultural session titled “Cultural and Creative Industries in the APEC Region and the Soft Power of Korean Culture.”
This moment marked a historic milestone: it was the first time the cultural industry was officially recognized as a central part of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum — and also the first time a K-pop artist was invited to speak at the event.
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Pride and Purpose in Representing Korea
With humility and grace, RM began his speech by greeting global leaders and expressing his pride in representing Korea, the country where he was born and raised. Speaking as both an artist and storyteller, he described K-pop as “a bridge that connects worlds,” emphasizing the power of music to unite people through creativity and shared emotion.
He also recalled the struggles BTS faced in their early years, when K-pop was still fighting to be heard outside Asia.
“Back then, hearing a Korean song in an English-speaking country was almost impossible. I learned how high cultural barriers can be,” RM reflected.
The Bibimbap Metaphor and the Power of Diversity
During his speech, RM compared K-pop to bibimbap, a traditional Korean dish that blends different ingredients in perfect harmony.
“K-pop is like bibimbap. We mix styles and emotions from Korea with elements of Western hip-hop, R&B, and EDM. Each part keeps its essence, but together they create something new, fresh, and delicious,” he explained.
For him, the global success of K-pop doesn’t come from one culture being superior to another, but from respect, diversity, and collaboration among different forms of artistic expression.
Culture as an Investment in the Future
Closing his speech, RM encouraged world leaders to invest in culture and creativity with the same importance as the economy.
With his trademark optimism, the artist stated that he will continue to use his art to spread messages of courage, hope, and unity, reminding everyone that culture is the bridge to understanding and global solidarity.
RM’s speech at the APEC CEO Summit 2025 reinforces his role as a cultural leader and voice of a new generation, showing that the influence of K-pop goes far beyond music — it’s about building bridges and inspiring the world to dream together.
