genre kpop

Trending on Billboard

HYBE’s first “global” group. It may have sounded a little too formal when used to describe &TEAM. But since their start through a 2022 audition program &AUDITION-The Howling, the nine members have proven that their story is anything but simple — a journey of passion, challenge and brotherhood. Billboard Korea sat down with all nine members of &TEAM ahead of their official Korean debut, which was on Oct. 28.

Explore

See latest videos, charts and news

EJ

In September, during the team’s third-anniversary event &TEAM 3rd Anniversary [緣 DAY], you announced your Korean debut — and immediately posted the news on Weverse.

We’d known in advance, of course, and I really wanted to tell everyone. Finally saying it out loud felt like a huge weight off my shoulders. At the same time, I was worried — would LUNÉ like the news as much as we hoped? Hearing the cheers grow louder right in front of us, I felt relieved and reassured.

What are you most looking forward to as the album Back to Life arrives on Oct. 28? It’s your first comeback in six months since “Go in Blind.”

Time has passed since “Go in Blind,” and because we’re preparing under the banner of a “Korean debut,” the anticipation is big. We’ve done some activities in Korea before, but since this is our official debut, the whole process feels different. We’ve always given our best, but publicly declaring, “We’re debuting in Korea!” brings a certain pressure and responsibility. Seeing not only the members but also the company staff cutting sleep to work so hard — it makes it impossible not to give everything we have.

HYBE’s HQ building in Seoul was literally wrapped to celebrate &TEAM’s Korean debut — with claw-mark “Paw Print” graphics across the façade. &TEAM has a clear narrative and visuals and titles often reflect it. What are you most excited about this time?

All six tracks span different genres, but we still carry the identity of the werewolf and build from there. The worldview remains; the difference is that we’ve matured. The stage itself feels more grown.

“Go in Blind” became your first million seller, and you wrapped your first Asia tour, AWAKEN THE BLOODLINE. Do those milestones energize you?

Numbers aren’t everything, but seeing the results of our work in a visible way is motivating. Reaching one goal naturally makes you think about the next. We’ve had trial and error since debut, but this year the outcomes of that effort are showing. Still, I don’t think these are results we created alone — they’re made together with the company and with LUNÉ.

The album’s title, Back to Life, named after its title track, represents a message of returning to your beginnings and starting anew. What does “beginner’s mind” mean to you?

Loving what I do. That first feeling of really wanting this — it’s the strength that gets you through. Keeping the exact same mind isn’t easy, but I want to carry it forward without wavering.

You seem even-keeled, though juggling a packed schedule and leading a large group can’t be easy. What have you done for yourself lately?

I have several hobbies. Rather than focusing on one thing for a long time, I try different things — playing guitar, reading and lately, I want to get a camera. I used to love essays, but these days I reach for short stories. I enjoy entering worlds I don’t know — the surreal can be really fun.

Since yout debut in December 2022, &TEAM have focused in Japan — from own variety show &TEAM Gakuen (&TEAM学園) to creating a Tokyo 23 Wards Guide content with the members. As the only Korean member of the group, I’m sure you must have learned a lot of new things about Japan.

I find differences fun — like how in Korea spoons and chopsticks are placed vertically side by side, but in Japan chopsticks are set horizontally. Or in a movie theater: I noticed no one left until the end credits finished. In Korea the lights come up and people head out — but the vibe there made it impossible to leave, so I waited too. [Laughs]

&TEAM is often introduced as K-pop powerhouse HYBE’s first global localized group. Does that title make &TEAM feel more special?

People sometimes ask if &TEAM is K-pop or J-pop, but I’d like the focus to be on the music as it is, rather than the language. I’m proud that we play a role in expanding the company’s musical style and culture. I hope people feel our appeal beyond language and borders.

You didn’t foresee debuting in such a special group back when you were a trainee. You also tried acting this year and are now facing an official debut in Korea. How do you approach new challenges?

I grew up hearing that opportunities can come anytime, anywhere — so always be ready. I can’t control whether chances appear, but if I give my best to what’s in front of me, unexpected opportunities do arrive. Staying ready to grab those moments — that’s what I can do.

(From left) MAKI, HARUA, FUMA, EJ, JO

YOUNG BAE

FUMA

How did it feel to announce your Korean debut during &TEAM 3rd Anniversary [緣 DAY]?

Proud, honestly. I was just eager to tell LUNÉ. The reaction was even hotter than I imagined, which made me happier. We had to go right onstage the moment the news hit the screen, and I remember thinking, “Is it OK to go up now?” I was nervous — and excited. [Laughs]

&TEAM have also been active in Korea through audition program shoots, concerts and music shows, but the title of “official Korean debut” still feels different?

I first wondered, “We’ve already been active — what will really change?” But once we began preparing, the fact that &TEAM started in Japan felt newly significant. As a fresh starting line, it’s special and exciting. We’ll be closer to Korean fans we haven’t met often, and also to LUNÉ in other countries — that makes me thrilled.

One reason this debut matters is that you’ve established a solid base in Japan. When did you feel “Our team has really grown”?

When we received a million certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan for “Go in Blind” this April. That’s when I felt &TEAM’s growth in a solid way. With that support, I felt both conviction to keep going and the desire to work even harder for LUNÉ.

You’re famously devoted to Pokémon. Is Glaceon still your “ultimate fave”?

It keeps changing. [Laughs] Eevee, Glaceon’s prior evolution, can evolve into so many forms — I want to be someone with that kind of multifaceted charm. Lately I’m into Dragonite. I heard there’s a new Mega Dragonite form coming in the new game Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and I’m excited.

You’re a distinct morning person. Do you feel lonely getting up before everyone else?

Not at all. I actually need alone time. Working in a group means you almost never get that unless it’s early morning. I use that time to play games, drink coffee and recharge.

&TEAM’s narrative and concept is very clear. Do you enjoy leaning into it?

When I first learned our identity was “Werewolf,” I was surprised. But it’s helped me immerse myself in expression — in dance, facial performance, and stage design — because there’s a concrete image to embody. I’m enjoying the immersion.

Korean music shows have unique elements like encore live stages and “ending fairy” moments. What are you most looking forward to in this cycle?

Fancams! The choreography for the title track is quite intense — physically exhausting while singing live. Please pay attention to the intro: Everyone starts lying on the floor, and MAKI lies on top of me — I have to push up to stand. [Laughs] I did so many push-ups in practice that I’ve built muscle. Those little details show best in fancams, so I hope you’ll focus on that in mine.

Is there a record or performance you really want people to see?

Of course the new title track — but please watch the “War Cry” music video. To me, it’s the most &TEAM song: a coming-of-age arc, idol-level performance, and even the transformation into wolves. My personal charms show well on stage in “Deer Hunter.”

Which Back to Life track shows off FUMA best?

“MISMATCH.” If the title track shows our powerful side, this song captures the vibe of us genuinely having fun together — listeners will naturally enjoy it. As a big SHINee fan, I felt a similar energy here; it’s exactly the mood I love. People say I have a pretty falsetto; I got parts where I could use that, and I’m satisfied with how it turned out. Please listen for those moments.

The “&” in &TEAM means connection. A moment when you felt grateful to have the members with you?

Too many to count. I’ve said before that my body sometimes hurts since I’ve danced since I was young. When that happens, the members ask, “Is this move OK?” “Should we change the formation?” Their care is a huge comfort. I’m always thankful — and happy — to be with them.

K

It’s great to see you right before your Oct. 28 Korean debut mini-album Back to Life. How do you feel?

It’s another challenge as &TEAM, so I’m excited — and also a bit anxious. Being in a Korean-language environment pushes me to study the language more, not only for daily conversation but for formal contexts like today’s interview.

At the event &TEAM 3rd Anniversary [緣 DAY] in September, you announced the news of your Korean debut. How did that moment feel?

The response from LUNÉ was overwhelming. Fans from Japan, Korea and many other countries cheered as one. It exceeded our expectations — I remember us saying to each other, “What a relief.”

What makes an “official Korean debut” feel distinct?

It’s when debut metrics will come out. I’m curious what results &TEAM can bring in Korea, and using this as a springboard has pushed each of us to work even harder — a platform for growth. Also, some songs resonate differently depending on language; there are tracks where the melody feels especially natural in Korean. This album has several like that, so it was easier to convey emotion while singing.

You used to be a marathoner. Sports rely on steady routines, while K-pop demands something new every comeback. Did you adapt quickly?

Even in sports I changed it up — marathon, soccer, swimming. I enjoy new challenges, so being an artist suits me. The patience to set a goal and wait through a long process is something I learned through years of training.

TAKI once named your “ability to bring everyone together” as a talent he is jealous of. Do you agree?

I’m not sure — but I can say our members are unbelievably kind. During practice and shoots, the nine of us are always together, and it never feels awkward — it’s comfortable. We love to talk and value spending time together. &TEAM really treasures being all nine together; we discuss everything as a team, even personal matters.

Korean music shows are famous for fancams and stage-focused content. What are you excited for?

Fancams! Each show uploads a member-focused cut. It lets me directly assess how my performance reads, and it becomes a tool for growth. The title “Back to Life” has intense choreography — singing live while dancing is no joke — but I want to show that I can deliver both performance and live vocals.

A song you’d recommend to Korean listeners just discovering &TEAM?

“War Cry.” &TEAM values tight group choreography, and our teamwork shows best there. Watch the music video — you’ll feel the energy of that era.

You journal almost every day. What do you record, and how does it influence your artistry?

It started as self-management: organizing the day and reflecting on what I lacked. Over time it captured my emotional traces — the day’s temperature, colors and scenery come back to me, and that inspires performance, staging and creative decisions.

An under-the-radar ability of K?

Sensing whether coffee is at the right temperature. I’m really sensitive to temperature — and I love coffee. The one in front of me is at an ideal temperature … which makes it taste great. [Laughs]

NICHOLAS

Congratulations on the Korean debut! What are you most looking forward to? It’s your first comeback in six months since “Go in Blind.”

Music shows. I love Korean “fancam” culture. I often search our fancams, too. I hope this cycle gives me the kind of fancam I can proudly recommend to everyone. [Laughs]

Why do you keep rewatching your stage footage?

Facial and emotional expression in performance is crucial. Watching fancams is partly monitoring, but it’s also checking whether the message we intended is actually being conveyed — and identifying what’s missing. That process helps me grow.

The six tracks range widely — from powerful songs like “Back to Life” and “Lunatic,” to ’90s R&B vibes in “MISMATCH,” to rock-ballad territory with “Heartbreak Time Machine.”

“Back to Life” literally means returning to life; with a new start in Korea, I feel like a rookie again three years after debut. I want to work with that original mindset — but with a bit more composure than at debut.

A track you’re personally attached to?

“Who Am I.” I like “Back to Life” because it blends rap and vocals I can handle well; “Who Am I” is a ballad and wasn’t easy for me. Maybe that’s why I love it more.

2024 — with Four Seasons Series — solidified the group’s footing in Japan. When did you most feel the team’s growth?

We weren’t a team that drew massive attention from day one. We’ve grown steadily while keeping our worldview. I’m grateful the results are showing. The Korean debut isn’t our end goal, but it does feel like entering a new phase. I want more people to discover &TEAM’s appeal.

You’re the only member from Taiwan. Do you notice differences in performing in Seoul, Tokyo and Taipei?

Different languages and cultures bring different on-site reactions. But communicating through music is the same everywhere. After a fan meeting last year, returning with a concert this year meant a lot. I didn’t imagine we’d do our own show there just two and a half years in.

K-pop constantly presents new challenges. How do you approach them?

Believing in myself is key. You can’t do something perfectly the first time you try it, but confidence is what allows you to pull it off — and building that confidence takes a lot of work.

When have you needed that self-belief the most?

Every comeback. During preparation my confidence dips — we work incredibly hard, but the response isn’t always equal to the effort. I worry, “What if my stage doesn’t meet expectations?”

Four years since formation — what have you learned about yourself compared to the early days?

My mindset is healthier than I thought. The schedule is constant — always the next thing — and I wasn’t used to that at first. I worried, “If it’s already like this, what about the future?” I’m relieved that I’ve adapted to the pace.

A recent work or person that inspired you?

Other artists always inspire me — not just idols, but illustrators and even fashion accounts. I’d long thought of filming &TEAM content myself but never did. Seeing CORTIS shoot their own content pushed me to try. HARUA, YUMA, and MAKI are the most cooperative — we’re filming TikToks together diligently. [Laughs]

Clockwise from top left) EJ, TAKI, MAKI, NICHOLAS, HARUA, K, FUMA, JO, YUMA

YOUNG BAE

YUMA

We’re meeting amid busy days before your Oct. 28 official Korean debut. What are you most excited about?

The moment we come back and show this to many LUNÉ — I can’t wait. Fans in Korea and beyond have been waiting, and we prepared a lot. I also filmed Korean variety shows this time; I hope many people watch.

You’ve already spent significant time in Korea through audition shows, music programs, and concerts. Does an official debut feel different?

Yes. A formal debut means a chance to introduce ourselves to many more people, with a longer promotion period and a wider range of activities.

So keeping up the stamina is key.

Preparing busily has actually improved my stamina — I really feel stronger now.

You’ve been known for self-discipline since debut.

Compared to debut, maybe I’m a little less intense now. [Laughs] Lately I work out a lot — and so do the members. Even if a schedule ends at 3 a.m., we go train together. We started before our Asia tour in May — to build stamina and abs — and somewhere along the way, working out became the way to properly end the day.

2024’s Four Seasons Series helped &TEAM further establish itself in Japan. When did you most feel the growth?

“Go in Blind.” We often have tight prep time, but even in that we added many of our own ideas — especially to choreography — which made us nervous, but the results were good. We also opened the concert tour AWAKEN THE BLOODLINE with “Go in Blind,” and that was my favorite moment — fans love it, and it’s a song that perfectly shows who &TEAM is as we make a powerful entrance.

Something you wish more people knew about YUMA?

I want people to listen closely to our songs — to the members’ voices. There are many layered elements, like backing vocals, that we worked hard on. I especially love “MISMATCH” on this album — please pay attention after the bridge.

Back to Life is about returning to your beginnings and starting anew. What does “beginner’s mind” mean to you?

Passion. It can fade over time, but I want to keep showing my best without forgetting how it felt at the start. Compared to debut, what’s grown most is my gratitude and love for LUNÉ.

The artist–fan relationship changing with time is fascinating.

It is. I feel we’ve grown closer, and receiving so much love naturally makes me think, “What more can I show? What can I do?”

JO

With Back to Life coming on Oct. 28, what’s your mindset for these promotions?

We’ll be active on Korean music shows again for the first time in a while. Over about three weeks, we’ll have many opportunities to express ourselves — including through fancams. I also really want to win first place!

In September, during &TEAM 3rd Anniversary [緣 DAY], you shared the news of your Korean debut. What was going through your mind?

When we first heard the decision, we were so shocked we couldn’t react properly — even though we were happy inside. Announcing it to LUNÉ, I felt both anticipation and worry: if our activity range widens, some might be sad that we can’t meet as often as before.

Why do you think the team ultimately chose to debut in Korea?

We’ve poured our hearts into Japan, but we’re a global group that debuted there. It felt like the right time to be seen more widely. This year we achieved a million seller and completed an Asia tour — solid milestones.

When did you most feel the team’s growth?

The Asia tour. Our skills improved, and we could felt how many fans outside Japan were watching us — it made me so happy. I felt we were truly stepping onto a wider global stage. Jakarta stands out in my memory; our name “&” means “connection,” and I genuinely felt connected to the audience. It was so fun.

Which track challenged you most while preparing this album?

They’re all fresh and varied, but “Back to Life” was the hardest — so it stands out. Before dividing parts, we all tried singing the whole thing, and the rap section was tough for me — very different from prior attempts. I worked closely with our producer to record it.

You were an athlete in school, and you’re also an art-minded member who draws well. What does drawing mean to you?

I think it strengthens my appeal as an artist. Singing and dancing are arts I must master; drawing is also art — and very important to me. When I draw, I think of nothing else. It’s a hobby I pursue seriously.

Anyway, have you seen the new film Chainsaw Man — The Movie: Reze Arc? You did a chainsaw-man-like pose on the web show Idol Human Theater.

Ah … I actually haven’t watched Chainsaw Man at all. That pose is just something I can do. I haven’t seen it. [Laughs]

Noted! Since formation in September 2022, what have you learned about yourself living with nine members?

I realized I’m not as introverted as I thought. I’m shy, but once I talk with the members, it’s fun and I open up — I do have a bright side.

You’re often cited by the members as the hardest worker. What keeps you going?

Solo practice. That time is the best refresh for me. In a space that’s just mine, blasting music and dancing like crazy — I love that sense of freedom, with no one watching.

HARUA

&TEAM’s Korean debut was announced during &TEAM 3rd Anniversary [緣 DAY] in September — and even posted about it on Weverse right after. How did that feel?

I wanted to tell LUNÉ quickly. [Laughs] Sharing such good news on such a special day made me truly happy, and it’s a moment I’ll remember for a long time.

We’re meeting before the Oct. 28 album release — are you feeling excited? It’s your first comeback in six months since “Go in Blind.”

K-pop seniors inspired me to dream of becoming an idol and to join this company. I’ve performed in Korea before, but this album is where I can fully and “officially” pursue that dream — I’m thrilled. It feels like I’ve taken a step closer to my goal. The feeling is completely different from previous activities.

In what way?

Before, it felt like an artist based in Japan appearing briefly on a Korean stage. Now it’s about showing ourselves properly in Korea — and the audience will see it differently. The responsibility to “prove it with skill” is heavier. We’ve worked hard for three years, but I’m treating this as another beginning.

Moments in Japan over the past three years when you felt the team’s growth most?

When we held our first Asia tour, and when our third single “Go in Blind” received a million certification. When effort comes back as numbers — and in the roar of a crowd — I feel we’re moving in the right direction.

&TEAM’s concept is clear. How do you embrace it?

The “werewolf” concept brings unique choreography. “Back to Life” is no exception — we step on each other to jump; sometimes someone drags me across the stage. [Laughs] At first it was hard to adapt and I was nervous every time. Now I know that’s exactly where our uniqueness comes from. I’m used to our world — and even enjoying it.

What part of Korean music show culture are you most excited about?

Stage sets. Korean shows build sets tailored to each concept. Seeing a unique &TEAM stage every time has been exciting — and with three weeks of promotions, I’m looking forward to diverse sets.

New fans will fall for &TEAM through this official debut. How would you describe the group’s charms to them?

Watch our natural selves in behind-the-scenes content, not just our serious stage presence. We play so well together off stage — I think you’ll find yourself smiling with us. [Laughs]

A rule you always keep while promoting?

Enjoy the stage. Audiences can tell instantly if you’re truly having fun. Our joy has to come first for it to reach fans.

A goal you want to achieve through these first official Korean activities?

I want to experience a music-show win — and sing the encore live properly. It still feels like a dream that we’re officially debuting in Korea, and most of all, I want to make more memories with LUNÉ.

TAKI

In September, onstage at &TEAM 3rd Anniversary [緣 DAY], you revealed the news of your Korean debut. How did you feel at that moment?

I’d been waiting three years for that moment. I was thrilled when I first heard — excited but also nervous. So many people shared our joy that day; it felt like a strong push helping &TEAM step further into the world. I was grateful.

Your first Korean mini-album is aptly titled Back to Life. With this new turning point, how do you feel?

You only debut once in your life. It feels like that first debut with &TEAM. We’re still rookies, but I want to carry the same spirit as the very first time. Above all, I want to show LUNÉ the nine-member picture that is &TEAM. Through the &TEAM FOUR SEASONS PROJECT and more, our bond has grown incredibly strong.

What do you most want to convey this cycle?

Our songs. I hope people watch the performance sides of “Back to Life” and “Lunatic,” but I also love the ballads — track five “Heartbreak Time Machine” and track six “Who Am I.” The lyrics are all in Korean this time, so I believe we can convey our hearts in a new way — I hope that comes through.

What video best shows TAKI’s charm?

“Yukiakari (雪明かり)” from the &TEAM FOUR SEASONS PROJECT. It’s a winter song, but I remember trying hard to show my burning heart to fans — and I think viewers can draw strength from it.

You’ve shown some of the most visible growth in the group. You were 15 on I-LAND (2020) and debuted through &AUDITION – The Howling – in 2022.

On I-LAND I knew almost nothing — it felt like I was just completing assigned tasks. Over time I found my own style and role models; my ambitions grew. It’s embarrassing to say, but I’ve definitely become an adult.

Yet you also have the cute nickname “Ddong-gae” (“mixed dog,” a nickname given to someone with a cute and friendly image in Korea). You once filmed content waking members in a puppy costume.

It was fun! I thought it was something only I could do. Though I was a little scared waking NICHOLAS — he’s sensitive in the morning — but he’s not scary otherwise. [Laughs]

You’ve said the members fill in what you lack. What do you give back to them?

Energy. I like doing everything with a smile. Of course, there are tough moments for the members, and I naturally try to lift the mood. Those moments make me feel our togetherness.

After your planned three weeks of Korean promotions, what do you hope to feel?

I’m not sure yet — but what’s certain is that my excitement and desire to show what we prepared outweigh any anxiety. I know we’re doing well — and that we can do this.

MAKI

Looking back at &TEAM 3rd Anniversary [緣 DAY] last September, when you announced your Korean debut — how do you remember that moment now?

It was the first time we could tell fans around the world about our official Korean debut. We were backstage, and the moment it hit the big screen, the cheers were enormous. Hearing that, I realized how many had been waiting — I was so happy, and it truly made the debut feel real.

A moment over the past three years when you felt &TEAM had grown?

Our first Asia tour, AWAKEN THE BLOODLINE. Traveling beyond Korea and Japan to perform was so enjoyable, and seeing how LUNÉ responded differently in each country was fascinating. It also let me speak more in English, which I’m comfortable with — overall, it was a moment that proved growth and a springboard for &TEAM.

With your official debut, your first Korean mini-album Back to Life is here. What are you proud of in the process?

My Korean still needs work, but I’m confident in my pronunciation. [Laughs] Even as a trainee, I practiced by imitating pronunciations from seniors’ songs — even when I didn’t understand the meaning. Making Back to Life let me finally showcase that. I especially like “MISMATCH” — I had to deliver the lyrical details while singing, and I’m proud of how it came out.

You also tried new visuals.

Yes — I cut my hair very short. I’m 19 this year and I’ve never had it this short, so I was worried at first. But on set for the concept photos and music video, the members said it suited me, and that gave me confidence. I’m getting used to the new style.

As HYBE’s first global group — and as someone fluent in English and also able to speak German — does that title make &TEAM feel more special?

Definitely. Using multiple languages is a big strength — meeting LUNÉ abroad or communicating online. Beyond language, I think &TEAM communicates exceptionally well as a unit; that smooth communication turns into teamwork and synergy that I believe LUNÉ feels.

The “&” in your name stands for connection. A recent moment you felt truly “connected”?

Practicing the title track choreography with all nine of us. We had fewer chances than usual to rehearse together, so syncing up in a short time was crucial. Watching the monitor on the MV set and seeing our timing click, I thought, “We’re really connected.”

You’ve said your sense of the music you want to make has become clearer in your fourth year together. How would you define it now?

With every recording, I want to carve out the details that make people say, “That’s MAKI’s voice.” I want to solidify my vocal identity. In R&B, for instance, I’m growing confident with vocal runs. Please also check my “golden hour” performance on the live content show ‘Leemujin Service’.

Within &TEAM now, what kind of music do you want to pursue?

More laid-back songs — like R&B moods you can listen to comfortably. Among our releases, “Deer Hunter” is closest to that. I also want to try unit stages with the members someday.

Trending on Billboard The singers behind Kpop Demon Hunters girl group HUNTR/X are used to slaying both vocals and demons, and in a new video for Instagram’s Close Friends Only: Speed Round series, EJAE, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami shared their best advice for the latter. In the clip posted Wednesday (Oct. 29), the trio […]

Trending on Billboard

Nowadays, BTS is the biggest boy band on the planet, K-pop or otherwise. But not too long ago, the genre was seen as niche in the Western world, a mindset that group leader RM credits ARMY with changing.

At this year’s APEC CEO Summit in South Korea — which gathers some of the most influential executives and economic leaders across Asia to discuss the future of business and innovation — RM delivered the keynote address and called on those in power to invest in artistic endeavors. “I’m not sure how familiar you are with K-culture or K-pop,” he told the crowd in Gyeongju-si on Wednesday (Oct. 29).

“But I’m sure you all agree that the cultural industry has great economic value and growth potential,” the performer continued. “As a creator and an artist of this generation, I would like to use this opportunity to make a request … there are creators all around the world. Please help them. Give them the financial support so that their own creativity can bloom. Give them the opportunities so that their talents can really shine.”

The global star emphasized how when BTS started, the group was called a “foreign culture” and that their music felt like a test to see if K-pop could enter the “global stage.” People didn’t ask about their music, he added, but instead, wondered whether the group was from North or South Korea.

“But we overcame those barriers, and now I’m here today sharing this precious moment with you.ARMY was the force that broke down those barriers,” he declared. “They use our music as the medium to carry out conversations that cross borders and languages. They were inspired by the message in the music of BTS to give to charity, to run social campaigns. And finally, the world was amazed. Back then ARMY was seen as ‘supporters of a minority culture from Asia.’ Now, they shake the world as a new community and a fandom culture.”

Elsewhere in his speech, RM emphasized how fortunate he feels to have his fans and bandmates Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook in his life. “I’m a very lucky person,” he gushed. I’m lucky to have met the six other members of BTS … And most importantly, I’m lucky I met ARMY, who accept our music not just as a diversion, but as our shared language of life.”

According to a release, this year’s summit marked the first time cultural and creative industries have been treated as key agenda items by APEC. In a world where the arts are undervalued all too often, RM drew on his own success as part of BTS to show the investors at the event how lucrative it can be to back music and other artistic endeavors.

RM’s appearance at the event comes as BTS is gearing up to make a major comeback in 2026. After spending some time apart to fulfill their respective service requirements in the South Korean military — during which time many of the members dropped solo projects, with RM dropping his album Right Place, Wrong Person in May 2024 — the band reunited this past July and promised that a new full-length and tour were in the works.

The following month, RM shared his thoughts on the comeback in a letter to ARMY on Weverse. “Making something ‘together’ with these friends,” he wrote of his bandmates at the time. “I’m going to commit myself to this moment. I’m going to thank you … I’m looking for what I’ll become. Something I’ve forgotten for too long.”

Read RM’s full speech at the 2025 APEC CEO Summit below.

Hello. I’m RM, the leader of BTS.

It’s an honor to be here and to meet the leaders of APEC here in Korea, where I was born and raised. I’m honored to tell you about myself, and to share my message. I’m proud and excited that this year, for the first time, the “cultural industry” was chosen as a key agenda for APEC.

I’m not sure how familiar you are with K-culture or K-pop. But I’m sure you all agree that the cultural industry has great economic value and growth potential. But I’m just an artist. I’m not a business leader. I don’t think you want to hear any numbers or figures from me.

So, today I want to speak to you as a creator and an artist. I want to share my thoughts on how K-pop crossed borders to move the hearts of people. It’s not something we can calculate or measure. It’s a bridge that connects worlds, and I want to bring your attention to how we can work together to build this connection for tomorrow’s creative cultural ecosystem.

I’m a very lucky person. I’m lucky to have met the six other members of BTS. I’m lucky that I met our producer “Hitman” Bang, who gave us his full support that we could make the music we love. And most importantly, I’m lucky I met ARMY, who accept our music not just as a diversion, but as our shared language of life.

Oh, by the way, ARMY is the name of the official BTS fandom. Further information, the army is where I just finished my military service. I was there for 18 months. Just wanted to make sure.

ARMY’s support and passion crossed all borders and opened up brand new paths for me. They gave me a voice that was heard at the Billboard Music Awards, at the Grammys, at the United Nations and even at the White House. At such historic and symbolic events, like right here at the APEC.

BTS first started to go outside Korea about 10 years ago. Back then, we didn’t dream of what we see today. Nothing was like this. Did you ever turn on your TV or radio and hear a song that’s not in your language or English? Probably not very often. I felt how hard it is to ever hear a Korean song in an English-speaking country. I saw how high a cultural barrier could be.

At that time, the music of BTS was quickly called “non-English, foreign culture.” Trying to get on mainstream media through our music was like doing an experiment and a huge challenge. It was a test to see if “music in Korean can work on the global stage.” We tried to get on TV to show the world our music, but the doors were closed and would not move.

But, as you know, we couldn’t just sit around and wait. We tried to make our own opportunities. we danced in the streets. We handed out flyers to free shows. But there was something even more difficult than those. When we said, “We are artists from Korea.” They didn’t ask us about our music. They asked, “Are you from North Korea or South Korea?” “Where on Earth is Korea?” So, we had to explain where Korea was before we could even talk about music. And that was reality.

But we overcame those barriers, and now I’m here today sharing this precious moment with you. ARMY was the force that broke down those barriers. They use our music as the medium to carry out conversations that cross borders and languages. They were inspired by the message in the music of BTS to give to charity, to run social campaigns. And finally, the world was amazed. Back then, ARMY was seen as “supporters of a minority culture from Asia.” Now, they shake the world as a new community and a fandom culture.

Even at this very moment, they are crossing borders and breaking down barriers through the pure power of cultural solidarity. Solidarity and tolerance that know no borders. And it’s an endless source of creative inspiration for me as well.

There is so much cultural content around the whole world. But why K-pop? Why is it so unique? Why does K-pop create this powerful and inclusive community?

It’s because of the special principle of unity of K-pop. This is what enables people from such diverse backgrounds to come together, just through the medium of K-pop.

I like to compare K-Pop music to bibimbap. Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish. You have to taste it. You take “bap,” which is rice. Then you put all kinds of vegetables, meat and flavorings on top, and mix it all up. That’s the “bibim.”

K-pop is much the same. You take Korea’s unique aesthetics, emotions and production system. But you don’t turn away elements of Western music, like hip-hop, R&B and EDM. Just like bibimbap, these parts all keep their unique identities but mix together to make something new and fresh and delightful. K-pop is not just a genre of music. It’s a 360-degree, total package of music, dance, performance, visual style, story-telling, music video and even social media.

K-pop’s success didn’t happen because one single culture was better. K-pop’s success came from respecting diversity and embracing world cultures, but still holding onto Korea’s unique identity. When cultural barriers come down and different voices harmonize together, there’s an explosion of creative energy. This is where ARMY’s borderless solidarity came from. And this is why K-pop is loved everywhere.

Culture is like a river. It flows freely, different streams sometimes coming together in harmony, just like K-pop. Coming together to carry itself far away and create something new. I would like to see this creative flow of culture happen everywhere around the world. The Asia-Pacific region has incredible dynamic cultural diversity. K-pop’s shining success is proof that cultural diversity and creativity are the greatest human potential — a force with no borders, no limit to growth.

Ladies and gentlemen, leaders of APEC, let me ask you a question: What is your favorite song? Do you remember seeing a painting that took your breath away? A book you read over and over again? We all know, we all love culture and art. And we are connected by the emotion and resonance that they awaken in us.

As a creator and an artist of this generation, I would like to use this opportunity to make a request to the leaders and distinguished guests of APEC. There are creators all around the world. Please help them. Give them the financial support so that their own creativity can bloom. Give them the opportunities so that their talents can really shine. When you think about investing in tomorrow’s generations, think about culture as well as economics. Culture and art are a powerful force that moves hearts. They are the fastest messengers that carry diversity and resonance.

As the leaders of APEC, your policies and support will be the canvas and playground for all the creators. The foundation for creators all over the world to pour out their creativity. When creators flourish, other elements of culture gather to form some brand new aesthetics. Their content will go beyond all kinds of “differences.” They will blaze a road of true understanding and tolerance. They will create the power of solidarity for the future.

I, too, stand by the vision of APEC. A vision that will drive diversity, inclusion and growth through culture and creativity. As an artist, I promise that I will also let my imagination fill the canvas you will create. I will play my heart out in the playground you will build for us. I promise that I’ll do my part by sending a message of courage and hope and a lot of emotions through music. A message of embracing our differences to make something better together.

I would like to ask for your support for this future. I believe you can make this happen. Your support can make creators let their creativity soar. With your help, their creations will resonate around the whole world.

Thank you.

Want to see everything that BTS has said about its upcoming reunion? Click on the image below!

BTS