Becoming a celebrity is also when your freedom is ℓσѕт and you will be bound by public prejudices. That is also the reason why famous superstars like BTS in general and RM in particular encounter criticism and invasion of their privacy almost every day.
Any of their actions or moves can be distorted and criticized as not consistent with the image of an influential person. RM himself has recently faced accusations of rαcιsm, whether it was just posting a simple song on Instagram or äċċïďệńẗally revealing a picture of him smoking. But RM himself has never succumbed to those criticisms.
In a recent interview with 032c, he frankly expressed all his thoughts:
In recent years, RM has presented a purer version of himself to fans, whether it be criticizing the Western world for its lack of perspective on K-Pop, admitting his own ignorance often breaks the hidden rules of the idol world. But none of these moves escaped backlash, whether from the K-Pop community or those outside of it. All of his actions can become a reason for him to be severely criticized.
Not long ago, he was accused of sharing An “Islamophobic” Song named Bad Religion on his Instagram. Next, when he äċċïďệńẗally revealed a photo of him holding a smoking cigarette, he also became a victim of terribly satirical, critical or defamatory comments.
But until now, RM has never been afraid or bowed down to such criticism. He even often directly resolves his controversies, making everyone admire him. This time, similarly, through his recent interview with 032c, he gave his views on the whole issue.
Regarding managing his position as a global superstar, RM said that he has learned how to juggle “the stress of always being in view [and] the benefits of becoming super famous.” But at the same time, he expressed his regret at the lack of space in the K-Pop industry for artists to be more honest and welcomed the gradual change in this attitude.
He said: "I also try to let [stuff] out, and I’m getting better at it but the hardest part is the K-Pop industry’s atmosphere. It’s kind of sad to admit this, but people are so conscious of others, and many see only what they want. But I’ve done this for 10-11 years now. I think it’s the right direction to move, where people like me, with some power, are a bit more honest. It’s a time where more honesty is celebrated".
RM pointed out the way he reveals his true self, beyond albums or content is through Instagram. Since launching all BTS members' personal accounts on the platform in 2022, the group leader has shown increasing comfort with allowing fans into his personal space, sharing shares the little things in everyday life that are not related to his music or artistic identity. That's also the reason why he shared the song or even intended to share his smoking moments.
Despite the backlash, he sees this as an honest attempt to communicate with fans on a personal level. He said: "I’m showing a kind of vulnerability. I get attacked because some people react that it’s too much for an idol to show. But for me, it’s a way of saying ‘I love you’ to people". Then he added: “How long can I just keep my mouth shut and only talk about good stuff in interviews? If you keep pressing it, it’s bound to burst.”
RM, however, clarified that his increased honesty, be it in interviews or his direct communication with fans, does not mean he was “living a lie for the last ten years.” “It’s just that I lived so intensely that there was little time to consider anything other than what I should do immediately next,” he explained.
In response to RM's response to the criticism aimed at him, fans couldn't help but applaud the sharp rebuttal. Clearly, true fans love the real RM rather than him trying to fit into someone else's image!
