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RM Becomes First K-Pop Artist to Address APEC CEO Summit, Urging Backing for Creators

His appearance placed culture at the center of an elite business forum, highlighting K-pop’s role as a tool of soft power and economic strategy.

Overview

  • Speaking in Gyeongju, RM framed K-pop as a 360-degree creative model and likened its blend of influences to bibimbap, crediting diversity as the source of its global appeal.
  • He asked political and corporate leaders to provide funding and opportunities for artists, calling culture a fast-moving force that carries diversity and moves hearts.
  • RM credited BTS’s ARMY with breaking barriers that led to stages like the Billboard Music Awards, the Grammys, the United Nations and the White House.
  • Hybe participated as a top-tier diamond sponsor at the summit and operated a showcase, reflecting how Korea’s entertainment sector now engages directly with global industry leaders.
  • Coverage also notes that BTS has reunited after military service, with reports indicating plans for a new album next year ahead of a world tour.