BTS RM: 'My father wanted to draw cartoon, but we were really poor'

BTS RM. Pic via Facebook

BTS leader RM has reflected on the sacrifices his parents made, the pressures of global fame and why staying grounded has become more important than chasing numbers. In a candid conversation on Fashion Neurosis with Bella Freud, the rapper spoke about his family's financial struggles, his father's unrealised artistic ambitions and how both his parents shaped the person he is today.

BTS RM on parents' support for music

RM revealed that his father had once dreamed of becoming a cartoon artist but was forced to give up that ambition because of the family's circumstances.

"My father wanted to draw cartoons, but at that time in Korea we were really poor and we got nothing. So my grandmother stopped him from what he really wanted to do," he shared.

Because his father was unable to pursue a creative career himself, RM said he wholeheartedly supported his son's decision to become a musician.

"My father had this craving for something beyond studies and regular jobs. So he was really quite supportive of what I was trying to do, which was music," RM said.

His mother, a teacher, offered a different perspective. "She was always trying to give me stability and telling me not to challenge too much, just stay in the safe zone," he recalled.

Describing himself as "a small clock pin going back and forth" between his parents' contrasting views, RM said the experience taught him the importance of balance. "I think I've learned the balance from my parents and they were such great parents to me."

BTS RM's life beyond fame

The BTS leader also reflected on navigating life as one of the world's biggest pop stars, admitting that he never set out to become globally famous.

"I never had a wish to be this big," he said, explaining that the pressure of chart success and constant public attention can easily distract artists from their creative purpose.

RM added that he now consciously tries to distance himself from numbers and online validation. "I'm trying to keep the distance from the numbers and impact itself and try to get close to nature and all those things that are not related to this fast era," he said.

He also admitted that the pace of social media has made it increasingly difficult to enjoy books and films the way he once did, saying today's digital culture often leaves him feeling like he constantly has to produce something new.
For RM, the lessons he learnt from home continue to guide him, balancing ambition with stability, success with humility, and fame with authenticity.