Among today’s fourth-generation boy groups, Stray Kids stands out as one of the most successful acts, boasting impressive achievements both domestically and internationally. Most recently, the group topped both the U.S. Top 10 Album and Top 10 CD Album charts according to data released by Luminate. Stray Kids also recently won first place in the Best Male Group category at the ASEA 2026.

Stray Kids’ current leading position would not have been possible without the guidance of leader Bang Chan, who is well known for his versatility. He is not only the group’s leader but also a talented artist capable of both singing and rapping, as well as a true music producer — handling everything from songwriting, arranging, and beat-making to vocal production.

Bang Chan is one of the few newer-generation idols who actively oversees and deeply participates in the entire music production process for his group. Because of this, he shares many similarities with RM, the leader of the “21st century pop icons” - BTS!

Although he has never collaborated with BTS or had a personal relationship with them, Bang Chan’s parallel journey as an idol-producer and leader of Stray Kids allows him to deeply understand his fellow artist. He has consistently shown great respect for the achievements BTS — especially RM — have accomplished. During a conversation with fans, Bang Chan openly mentioned RM directly and shared his honest thoughts.

Specifically, he said, “RM writes lyrics very well. He’s known to be one of the best leaders and he’s one of my biggest role models. He’s one of the coolest guys out there and really smart as well. I may not be, but he is one of the best leaders.”

During that same broadcast, Bang Chan listened to Seoul from RM’s mixtape 'mono'. He sincerely shared, “The first time I heard this song, I became overwhelmed with feelings. It almost made me cry because it resonated with me a lot".

Bang Chan did not simply mention RM out of professional courtesy — he expressed genuine admiration for the BTS leader’s talent and character. His praise for RM’s lyric-writing sкιℓℓs, along with calling him “one of the best leaders,” clearly shows how deeply RM has influenced him.

This further proves that RM is not only beloved by ARMY, but is also regarded by fellow artists as an ideal role model for leadership. Moreover, because Bang Chan himself is an exceptionally talented music producer, his recognition carries significant weight. His words highlight RM’s remarkable artistry and status.

Interestingly, many ARMYs even consider Bang Chan part of the fandom because he has repeatedly expressed admiration for BTS and their music over the years — not just for RM alone. For example, during a livestream in 2022, he received countless purple heart emojis in the comments after playing BTS’s Mikrokosmos. He then commented, "Yeah, I mean, the members of BTS are legends. They paved the way. You have to admit that they paved the way. Anyway, mad respect to BTS. They're amazing." 

At BTS’s concert in early April this year in Goyang as part of the ARIRANG world tour, Bang Chan was also spotted attending in the au∂ιєnce alongside his manager. Despite the cold and rainy weather, he attentively watched the concert from beginning to end and pαѕѕionately cheered for BTS just like any ordinary fan would.

ARMYs deeply appreciate the sincere respect and admiration Bang Chan has consistently shown toward BTS and RM, leaving comments such as:

- I really appreciate this member , he always praises and talks respectfully about BTS. So, yeah thank you 

- Why fandoms should stop fιgнтing w/ each other cuz their idols often admire or are friends w/ each other.

- Seeing Bang Chan praise RM makes my heart so full. Leader to leader respect

- Takes one to know one Bang Chan. Both of them have been and are absolutely incredible in their roles as leaders and evolving their own talents/sкιℓℓs. Regardless of fanwars and opinions born out of teenage angst, both of these young men have shown and proved.

- RM isn't just any cheap idol; he's a born artist, a complete composer with incredible lyricism

- You’re one of the best too channie. Thank you for praising our best leader

- Takes one to know one, Chan. Such kinds words from a kind soul to another kind soul!

- Real recognizes real. This is why I respect Bang Chan even more now

- So proud of our golden leader, his musical talent and leadership are beyond words

- Bang Chan is absolutely right — RM really is one of the best leaders in K-pop history

- Couldn’t agree more with Chan. RM’s lyricism is on another level. His talent in leadership is also proved

- I need a Bang Chan x RM collab ASAP — two brilliant leaders in one track would be legendary.

- They should really meet one day. Imagine the deep conversation these two would have about music and leadership