In an interview, Jin once opened up about how his relationships with those around him had significantly changed after becoming a top K-pop superstar: "There’s a lot of pressure to meet up with people. I haven’t changed, but my friends find it difficult to be around me. I’ve ℓσѕт a lot of people around me.”

In reality, neither Jin, RM, nor any BTS member has ever acted arrogant or flaunted their fame in a way that would make others feel distant. However, it’s undeniable that becoming K-pop idols naturally created a gap between them and their friends—or even family.

Many people may feel hesitant to approach them for various reasons: discomfort with lifestyle differences, fame, public attention, or even fear of fan backlash.

One example of this dynamic was revealed in the relationship between RM and his cousin, Ji Yeon Seo, talented young female MMA fιgнтer in mixed martial arts. She is known by the nicknames Magikarp and Honey Bee when she was a professional boxer. 

Starting in 2017 when she officially competed, she set an impressive record with 8/12 matches, winning a gold medal at an international tournament even though she had only been in the profession for 3 years. Though well-known in her own field, she surprised many after revealing in an interview that she is the cousin of BTS’s RM: "We are cousins. Sometimes during vacation, we see each other."

Due to RM’s packed schedule, he rarely has time to spend with family. At the same time, the demanding routine of a martial artist meant Yeon Seo also had very few breaks. Therefore, they no longer have the opportunity to meet as often as they did when they were younger.

Despite being close since childhood, Yeon Seo admitted her feelings changed every time she met him later on: "He's the cousin I've seen since I was little, but when he's become such a super star, it's hard to approach him first and try to get close" .

She also worried that her familiarity might make him feel uncomfortable or awkward. Another reason she hesitated to talk about their relationship was because of fans. "But he still cheered me on and told me to work hard. I purposely didn’t talk about this in fear of ιиѕυℓтing BTS fans, but I am proud that I have a cousin who is famous around the world", she then shared how RM’s kindness and thoughtfulness helped mend their relationship.

Despite his hectic idol schedule, RM showed care for his cousin. At one point, he gifted her a BTS album signed by all members, with a message that read: "Jiyeon-ah, how are you? Wish you always healthy and happy during your time at school! Be strong!".

Not only that, when BTS held a concert in Seoul, RM even invited her to the show. It was RM who took the initiative to bridge the gap and ease the awkwardness Yeon Seo felt from having a world-famous cousin.

This shows how much RM values his relationships with family and those around him. He understands the importance of maintaining strong bonds and actively works to stay connected with them.

The story of the two cousins touched many fans and highlighted why RM—and BTS as a whole—continue to win hearts around the world.