Kim Nam Joon, the leader of a South Korean boy band BTS and also known as “RM” delivered a speech at the United Nations headquarters, becoming the first-ever South Korean musician to speak at the UN on September 24.
“Beyond the Scene” or “Bangtan Boys”, more familiar to fans under the name of BTS, is Big Hit Entertainment’s seven-member boy band who made their first debut in 2013. The group has established a number of records as they became a global pop sensation. They have become the first Korean group to top the Billboard Social 50 chart and to win a Billboard Music award. Also, the group’s recent album, Love Yourself: Tear (2018) topped the Billboard 200 chart, making it the first K-pop album to reach #1 in the US. It has been reported that they have sold over 9 million albums worldwide since their debut. The group’s sensational success has given them a chance to deliver a speech to the world.
At the UN, RM attempted to encourage young people around the world to follow their own dreams. He shared his childhood experience that influenced him to become a musician. He said that when he was around nine or ten years old, he stopped dreaming and began to see himself through other people’s eyes. However, he eventually followed his passion for music and became a successful musician. “I want to hear your conviction: no matter who you are or where you’re from, your skin color, your gender identity. Just speak yourself,” said RM during the speech.
The purpose of the speech was to address the successful launch of “Generation Unlimited” campaign in order to promote young people’s education, training, and employment. BTS has already collaborated with UNICEF during the “LOVE MYSELF” campaign to exterminate youth violence and to enhance young people’s well-being in November 2017.
At the end of the speech, RM’s closing statement also moved the hearts of the fans and the audience. He stated, “I’m Kim Nam Joon and also RM of BTS. I am an idol and I am an artist from a small town in Korea. Like most people I’ve made many mistakes in my life. I have many faults and I have many more fears, but I am going to embrace myself as hard as I can. And, I am starting to love myself gradually, little by little. What is your name? Speak yourself.”
Sangwon Lee | Reporter
slee235@masonlive.gmu.edu
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