Gyeongju: BTS frontman RM on Wednesday became the first K-pop artist to deliver a keynote address at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit, likening the genre’s global appeal to “bibimbap,” the Korean mixed rice dish that blends diverse ingredients into one harmonious whole. Speaking at the Gyeongju Arts Center in the southeastern city of Gyeongju on “the cultural and creative industries in the APEC region and the soft power of Korean culture,” the 31-year-old said K-pop’s power lies in its ability to cross borders and connect people through shared emotions.

According to Philippines News Agency, RM explained K-pop music as akin to bibimbap, where various components maintain their identities while coming together to create something new. He highlighted that this blend includes Korea’s unique aesthetics along with elements of Western music, such as hip-hop, R and B, and EDM, creating a fresh and delightful experience. RM described K-pop as an encompassing package of music, dance, performance, and storytelling, emphasizing that its success is rooted in respecting diversity while preserving a Korean identity.

RM recounted BTS’s challenges in gaining recognition in the English-speaking world a decade ago, when accessing mainstream media for foreign music was considered experimental. He mentioned the skepticism they faced regarding Korea’s identity and location. He attributed the breakthrough to their fanbase, ARMY, who utilized BTS’s music to foster cross-border conversations and amplify their voices at major platforms like the Billboard Music Awards and the United Nations.

He praised ARMY as a community shaped by cultural solidarity and tolerance, which continues to inspire him. RM likened culture to a river, flowing and merging to create something new, expressing hope for this cultural creativity to flourish worldwide. The APEC CEO Summit, the largest private-sector forum associated with the 21-member APEC bloc, commenced on Tuesday with the theme “Beyond, Business, Bridge.”

Addressing global business leaders, RM urged for more support towards creative communities, advocating for financial backing to nurture creativity. He emphasized the role of culture and the arts as powerful forces that convey diversity.