Global group BTS leader RM delivered a keynote speech at APEC.
On the 29th, RM spoke as the keynote speaker at the CEO Summit held as a side event of the PEC leaders' meeting. It drew attention that a K-pop singer was appearing as a speaker at this event for the first time.
At Gyeongju Arts Center, where he spoke on the theme "APEC region's cultural creative industries and the soft power of K-culture," he began, "The world is being shaken by new communities and fandom culture. Even at this moment, they are crossing borders and breaking down walls with the pure power of cultural solidarity and inclusion. That current gives me endless creative inspiration."
He continued, "There are very diverse cultural contents around the world. But why K-pop? What makes K-pop special?" and said, "The reason K-pop creates such a strong and inclusive community lies in its unique 'principle of integration.' It is the power that allows people from different backgrounds to naturally come together through the medium of K-pop."
RM said, "I want to compare K-pop to Korea's traditional dish bibimbap," and explained, "Like bibimbap, where various vegetables, meat and seasonings are put on rice and mixed together, K-pop is based on Korea's native aesthetics, sensibilities and production system, yet it does not turn away elements of Western music such as hip-hop, R&B and EDM. Each element maintains its unique character while mixing together to create something new, fresh and enjoyable."
He added, "K-pop's success was not achieved because one culture is superior. It is the result of respecting diversity and embracing the world's cultures while preserving Korean identity," and said, "The borderless solidarity of BTS's fandom, ARMY, also stems from that, and that is why K-pop is loved everywhere."
RM also said, "K-pop's dazzling success proves that cultural diversity and creativity are humanity's greatest potential. There are no borders and no limits to growth," and asked, "We all love culture and the arts. And we are connected through the emotions and resonance that culture and the arts awaken in us. As creators and artists of this era, I take this opportunity to ask the leaders and guests of APEC to provide financial support so that the many creators around the world can have their creativity flourish."
He said emphatically, "When you invest in tomorrow's generation, please invest not only in the economy but also in culture. Culture and the arts are a powerful force that moves the heart. When creators thrive, other elements of culture come together to form entirely new aesthetics. Their content will transcend all differences and illuminate the path to genuine understanding and tolerance."
Finally, RM bowed to cheers and said, "As an artist, I promise to fill the canvas you provide with imagination. I will perform wholeheartedly in the playground you create. I will convey a message of courage and hope to embrace each other's differences and create something better together, and a deep, moving message through music," adding, "Thank you for listening."
[Photo] KBS News capture / HYBE provided
[OSEN]