GYEONGJU, South Korea — BTS leader RM (Kim Nam-joon) delivered an impassioned speech at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) business forum on Wednesday, urging world leaders and corporate executives to embrace cultural diversity and global collaboration. The rapper and songwriter called for “no borders, no limitations,” saying creativity flourishes when differences are celebrated rather than divided.

RM’s remarks came during a session focused on innovation and cultural exchange, held on the sidelines of the APEC summit in his home country. The event, however, unfolded under the shadow of rising protectionist trade policies and tariff tensions, as political leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung discussed the global economic outlook.

RM: “Cultural Barriers Must Come Down”

“I am just an artist. I am not a business leader, so today, I want to speak to you as a creator and an artist,” said the 31-year-old rapper, speaking to an audience of international executives, diplomats, and cultural figures.

“When cultural barriers come down and different voices harmonize together, there’s an explosion of creative energy,” RM said, drawing applause from attendees. “This is why K-Pop is loved everywhere.”

He highlighted the BTS ARMY, the band’s global fanbase that spans continents and languages, as proof that “cultural solidarity” can transcend geography and politics.

“ARMY is crossing borders and breaking down barriers through the pure power of cultural solidarity,” RM said.

BTS and Korea’s Growing Cultural Influence

The appearance marked RM’s first major international speech since BTS reunited earlier this year, with all seven members having completed South Korea’s mandatory military service. The group, which has been on hiatus since 2022, is reportedly preparing a new album for release in 2026, followed by a world tour expected to draw millions of fans globally.

RM used his platform to connect the group’s success to Korea’s broader cultural and economic aspirations, as the nation seeks to expand its global influence through “soft power” — the ability to attract and engage through culture rather than politics or force.

Comparing art and culture to a flowing river, RM said creativity thrives only when it moves freely. “K-Pop is like bibimbap, a traditional Korean dish where diverse ingredients blend into something harmonious and unique,” he said. “It’s proof that beauty is born from diversity.”

Cultural Diplomacy in an Era of Trade Tensions

Earlier in the day, the same forum hosted remarks by President Donald Trump and President Lee Jae Myung, who held bilateral discussions nearby about trade and tariffs.

While much of the political discussion focused on economic protectionism and import duties, RM’s message stood in sharp contrast — advocating for openness and collaboration rather than restriction.

His words resonated strongly with attendees, many of whom praised the speech as a reminder that creativity and culture can bridge divides where politics cannot.

“RM’s message was deeply symbolic,” said a South Korean cultural policy advisor attending the summit. “He reminded us that K-Pop and Korean culture are about connection, not separation.”

South Korea Bets on Cultural Exports

President Lee’s administration has made cultural exports a cornerstone of its economic growth strategy. With traditional manufacturing facing headwinds from global competition and trade barriers, Seoul is investing heavily in entertainment, media, and digital platforms to position South Korea as a cultural and creative powerhouse.

“K-Pop’s global success is proof that creativity and diversity are the greatest human potential,” RM concluded. “Of course — no borders, no limitations.”

The message was clear: as global leaders debate trade and tariffs, the world’s biggest pop band is reminding them that art and culture remain the true engines of human connection.