BTS Leader RM Discusses K-Pop’s Intense Training and Industry Evolution

Kim Nam-joon, better known as RM, leader of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, has once again shared his candid insights into the K-pop industry, shedding light on the intense training system and the broader cultural dynamics shaping the genre. Currently fulfilling his mandatory military service, RM’s remarks have sparked widespread conversation across social media platforms, especially after a recent interview was shared on The Qoo, a popular South Korean social forum.

In a discussion that garnered significant attention, RM addressed the rigorous and competitive nature of K-pop training, revealing the complexities and pressures that aspiring idols face long before their debut. Responding to a question about the strenuous training process, he offered a rare glimpse into the backstage realities of the K-pop world, which often remain hidden from public view.

"I know my agency isn’t particularly fond of me answering questions like this, but I think it's important to acknowledge the system," RM began, acknowledging the controversy surrounding the industry's demanding environment. "Some might take my words and spin them into headlines like 'RM criticizes the system as harmful to young artists.' But despite its flaws, the system has undeniably played a significant role in shaping the industry we see today," he explained.

The BTS leader also highlighted how the industry has evolved over time. "A lot has improved — the training methods, the contract terms, and the overall structure of the industry have all seen positive changes," RM noted, emphasizing the ongoing transformation that aims to reduce the harshest aspects of the trainee experience.

The interviewer also probed RM on the pervasive "obsession with perfection" and constant pressure that K-pop stars face, questioning whether this tension is unique to Korean culture. RM offered a nuanced perspective, linking the national drive for success to South Korea’s historical struggles.

"Westerners don’t fully understand the historical context," RM began, offering a reflection on the country’s past. "South Korea was once devastated by invasions, divided, and impoverished. Just a few decades ago, we were a nation in dire need of assistance from the IMF and the UN. Today, we are a country that has garnered global attention — how did this transformation happen? It was the result of relentless hard work from the people."

Drawing attention to the country’s growth, RM noted how Korea’s remarkable rise from poverty to global prominence was a product of immense dedication and effort. He pointed out that while outsiders, especially from countries with colonial histories, may criticize Korean work ethics, it is this very tenacity that has propelled the nation to its current standing.

Despite acknowledging the sacrifices and challenges, RM also praised the global appeal of K-pop, highlighting that the very traits that make the industry intense also contribute to its captivating nature. "The harsh realities of K-pop may come with drawbacks, but they are also what make the industry so compelling. Things that progress too quickly or too intensely always come with consequences, but it’s part of the process," RM remarked.

The BTS leader’s candid remarks struck a chord with fans and observers alike, with many expressing their appreciation for his openness and depth of thought. The interview quickly went viral, attracting thousands of comments and sparking conversations about the demanding nature of the K-pop industry and the cultural dynamics of South Korea.