BTS RM says he's an ‘attention seeker' and sees nothing wrong with it; rapper admits life often feels like ‘unjust criticism' and reveals how he deals with it

Indian Express

2 days ago

BTS member RM, aka Kim Namjoon, known for his intellect and bold stance, recently appeared in a short interview with Harper's Bazaar Korea. Flaunting his charisma and sharp visuals in a Bottega Veneta outfit, as the brand's first-ever ambassador, he opened up about his life and revealed this was his first shoot after completing military service. The rapper, whose birthday also falls in September, called the moment 'an honour' and reflected on his journey so far.
'Hey guys, I've got something to say, gather around,' RM began, recalling how he often gathered his bandmates in the past. 'I've also used some strong language before, and I've shouted too. But really, I was just trying to be funny.'
Also read: BTS' RM on craving a 'simple life' to feel alive; reveals why he can't do it for long: 'I feel becoming closer to my true self when…'
When asked about his childhood dreams and how they compare to his present reality, the Indigo hitmaker admitted he has always been an attention seeker. Unlike those who see it as bothersome, RM never considered it a flaw. 'I'm an attention seeker. I like to be in the spotlight. That's the same,' he said. The rapper added, 'I don't think that's a bad thing.' Explaining further, the BTS leader shared how his childhood nickname was 'Talk Box' because he was always telling stories. He loved it so much that he even considered becoming a comedian. 'I used to gather interesting stories from the internet and share them with my friends,' he recalled. 'I also liked public speaking, giving presentations, and making people laugh. I used to want to be a comedian. So, my desire for attention is quite similar.'
BTS is currently one of the biggest boy bands in the world, with millions of fans waiting for their comeback next year. This will be the septet's first album together after an 18-month gap due to mandatory military service, and the pressure is massive. As a leader, RM has never shied away from admitting how heavy these expectations can get, sometimes mentally exhausting to the point he craves a simple life. At one point in the interview, when asked to name one phrase he always carries in his heart, his answer was direct: 'Everything happens for a reason. God always gives us challenges according to our capacity.'
Also read: BTS' RM and Jungkook admit Kim Taehyung has changed: 'We can't keep up anymore, he's stronger'
He explained, 'I try to make these words a habit, because when life feels tough, they remind me that maybe I have the strength to handle it. There are many times when life feels like unjust criticism, and I think maybe it's because I have a big capacity. That's why these challenges arise.' A firm believer in self-affirmation, he added, 'If you keep casting good spells on yourself, you can internalise those words. I hope you'll give it a try.' For years, BTS has fronted the Love Yourself campaign, and fans were quick to note that despite the crushing pressure, the group still stands by that same philosophy.