BTS's RM named first global ambassador for National Museum of Korea
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- BTS leader RM has been appointed as the first global ambassador for the National Museum of Korea.
- The museum aims to leverage RM's global influence to promote Korean cultural heritage and enhance its international standing.
- RM expressed his commitment to sharing the beauty and value of Korean heritage with a wider audience.
The National Museum of Korea has appointed RM, the leader of global K-pop sensation BTS, as its first-ever global ambassador. The museum announced the appointment on June 20, stating its intention to utilize RM's international influence to promote the value of Korean cultural heritage both domestically and abroad, thereby elevating the museum's global profile.
During the appointment ceremony held the previous day, museum director Yoo Hong-joon presented RM with a special edition scroll of the 'Daedongyeojido,' a historically significant Korean map, reproduced in miniature. RM, accepting the honor, pledged his dedication to the cause. "I will work together to ensure that the beauty and value of our cultural heritage can be conveyed to more people," he stated.
RM has consistently shown a deep interest in traditional Korean culture and art. He has previously donated 100 million won each in 2021 and 2022 to the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation, an affiliate of the Cultural Heritage Administration, to support the preservation, restoration, and utilization of Korean cultural assets overseas. He is also scheduled to hold a personal exhibition of his collection at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art in October.
The museum's decision to appoint RM reflects a strategic move to connect with a younger, global audience and highlight the richness of Korean history and tradition. His involvement is expected to significantly boost interest in Korean culture and the National Museum itself on the world stage.
I will work together to ensure that the beauty and value of our cultural heritage can be conveyed to more people.
Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.