BTS leader RM has been named as the first Global Public Relations Ambassador in the history of the National Museum of Korea (NMK).
The NMK, the country’s flagship museum, said the appointment recognizes RM’s longstanding interest in Korean traditional culture and art.
“RM has long expressed a deep affection for Korean art, cultural heritage, and the museum. As Global PR Ambassador, he will join the NMK in sharing the value and beauty of Korea’s cultural heritage with audiences around the world,” the museum said.
It is the first time the Seoul-based institution has named a global ambassador under its banner.
As part of his activities with the museum, RM recently visited the NMK and toured several exhibitions. During the visit, he explored the upcoming special exhibition, Amazing Thailand: Masterpieces of Thai Art, as well as the seasonal feature exhibition, Kim Hongdo: Painting His Era. The rapper also examined various collections and programs offered by the museum.
At a ceremony held a day earlier, NMK Director You Hong-june presented RM with a special-edition reproduction of the Daedongyeojido, the renowned 19th-century map of the Korean Peninsula that is preserved in the museum’s collection.
In a statement accompanying the announcement, the museum highlighted RM’s appreciation for Korean cultural heritage.
RM, whose real name is Kim Nam-joon, is widely known for his support of Korean art and cultural preservation. A serious art collector, he has actively contributed to efforts aimed at protecting the nation’s cultural assets.
In 2021 and 2022, the rapper donated 100 million won (approximately $65,000) each year to the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation, a government-affiliated organization dedicated to preserving and recovering Korean cultural properties located overseas.
The National Museum of Korea said it hopes the partnership with RM will help connect the past with the present and introduce Korean culture to a broader international audience.
“By connecting the past with the present, and Korea with the world, the NMK hopes to create more opportunities for everyone to appreciate Korean culture and art,” the museum said.
“The museum remains dedicated to sharing these enduring stories and values with a global audience.”
