BTS leader RM has long been considered one of the most thoughtful voices in K-pop, but his recent interview with British fashion designer Bella Freud offered a rare, intimate glimpse into how his understanding of leadership has evolved. In the conversation, released on July 22, 2026, RM spoke candidly about the pressures of guiding one of the world's biggest music groups, the unexpected nature of BTS's global rise, and the simple yet profound analogy that forever changed his perspective on what it truly means to lead.
For years, RM has been the public face of BTS, serving as the group's spokesperson, main rapper, and leader. His journey from an underground rapper to a global superstar has been well documented, but what the interview revealed was a side of RM rarely seen: a man wrestling with the very concept of leadership amid the chaos of fame. According to RM, BTS's unprecedented success was never part of the original plan. The group, which debuted in 2013 under Big Hit Entertainment, was formed with the ambition of making music that resonated with young people, but no one anticipated the meteoric rise that would follow. RM explained that instead of chasing charts and numbers, he now tries to anchor himself in nature and real-life experiences to stay grounded, a strategy he has adopted to cope with the relentless pace of his career.
The interview also delved into RM's concerns about the modern digital landscape. He expressed worry about the prevalence of short-form content, such as shorts and reels, which he believes creates a constant pressure to always be productive. According to RM, the speed of modern life is one of the things that worries him most, as it leaves little room for people to slow down, reflect, and simply be present. He pointed out that this relentless momentum can be especially challenging for artists, who need space to cultivate creativity and emotional depth. His comments struck a chord with many fans, who have often praised RM for his introspective and philosophical approach to life.
When asked directly what leadership means to him, RM used a clear and relatable example that has shaped his thinking for years. He imagined a room where everyone is relaxing, enjoying each other's company, when a cold breeze suddenly enters through an open window. Everyone notices it, but no one wants to get up and close it. "Someone needs to close the window, but everyone is too comfortable and reluctant to move," RM explained. "I think a leader's role is for one person to get up and close the window in that moment. If someone had to do it, I thought I should be the one." This analogy, simple as it may sound, encapsulates a leadership philosophy that prioritizes responsibility over authority. For RM, a leader is not someone who commands or boasts power, but someone who is willing to do the chores nobody else wants to do if it helps the team move forward.
This window analogy is not just a passing thought; it represents a fundamental shift in RM's mindset. Early in his career, he admitted that his leadership style was much more rigid. "For the first 8 or 9 years, I had a very strong and somewhat dogmatic leadership style," he revealed. That period, which coincided with BTS's rise from a rookie group to a global phenomenon, required a firm hand to keep the group focused. RM often took on the burden of decision-making, driven by the pressure to succeed and the fear of failure. However, as each BTS member began to build an individual career and identity, RM realized that his approach had to change. The group was no longer a collection of trainees following a single vision; they were mature artists with their own creative voices. RM recognized that a leader who refuses to adapt would eventually hinder the growth of the team.
This realization led to a more collaborative and empathetic approach. RM shifted toward better communication and active listening, making space for the members to express their own ideas and concerns. He began to understand that leadership is not about imposing one's will but about facilitating a shared journey. The result, as seen in BTS's recent activities, is a group that continues to evolve while maintaining a strong sense of unity. RM added that hearing the members appreciate his efforts makes every challenge worthwhile. "When the members tell me, 'We know how hard you try. It's really great to have a leader like you,' all the stress I've felt until then just melts away. That is the beauty of a team," he shared. This sentiment reflects a deep sense of mutual respect and love that has been a hallmark of BTS's journey.
The conversation with Bella Freud also touched upon RM's 2024 solo album, Right Place, Wrong Person. The album, which was released to critical acclaim, explored themes of displacement, self-doubt, and the search for authenticity. RM explained that the project reflected his desire to let go of constant pressure and become more relaxed. He described the creative process as a form of therapy, allowing him to confront his own anxieties and share them with his listeners. The album's title itself suggests a feeling of being out of sync with the world, a sentiment that resonated with many fans who have followed RM's introspective solo work. Tracks like "Come back to me" and "LOST!" showcased a more experimental side of RM, blending genres and pushing boundaries beyond the typical K-pop sound.
RM's evolution as a leader is also intertwined with his personal growth. Known for his love of art, literature, and philosophy, RM has often used these interests to inform his music and his worldview. In the interview, he spoke about the importance of finding balance in a fast-moving world, emphasizing that success should not come at the cost of one's well-being. His dedication to nature and real-life experiences, he noted, helps him maintain a sense of perspective even as BTS continues to dominate global charts. This grounding practice has become even more crucial as the group members embark on individual projects, from solo albums to acting roles, while still coming together for group activities.
Looking back at BTS's journey, it is impossible to separate RM's leadership from the group's success. Since their debut, BTS has broken numerous records, from topping the Billboard Hot 100 to selling out stadiums around the world. But behind the scenes, it is clear that RM has worked tirelessly to foster an environment where creativity can thrive. His willingness to do the thankless tasks, like closing the proverbial window, has earned him the respect and affection of his bandmates and fans alike. The members' public admiration for RM has been a recurring theme in interviews and documentary footage, with each member often citing his role as a source of inspiration.
The interview with Bella Freud is not just another celebrity profile; it is a reflection of a mature artist who has come to terms with the complexities of his role. RM's honesty about his insecurities, his dogmatic past, and his ongoing struggles with the speed of modern life makes him relatable, even as he stands at the pinnacle of the music industry. He does not pretend to have all the answers, but he offers a practical, humble philosophy that resonates far beyond the realm of K-pop.
In the weeks following the interview, fans and media outlets have been quick to share RM's window analogy, praising it as a simple yet profound teaching about leadership. It serves as a reminder that true leadership is often found in the unglamorous moments, in the willingness to stand up when no one else will. For RM, this lesson has transformed his perspective, allowing him to lead with greater flexibility and compassion. As he continues to navigate his career, both as a member of BTS and as a solo artist, one thing is certain: RM's wisdom will continue to guide him, and his words will continue to inspire others.
His concerns about digital culture are shared by many of his contemporaries, who have also spoken out about the pressures of social media and the endless cycle of content creation. RM's insistence on taking time for reflection is a counterpoint to the trend of constant productivity, urging his listeners to embrace stillness in a world that never seems to stop. Whether he is performing on stage, curating an art exhibit, or simply sitting in a park, RM embodies the idea that a leader does not have to be the loudest person in the room; sometimes, the quietest actions speak the most.
As BTS moves forward with new projects and continued global influence, RM's evolution as a leader will undoubtedly shape the group's future. The members have expressed their trust in him, and he has proven time and again that he is worthy of that trust. The window analogy, once a personal reflection, has become a shared lesson for all those who look up to him. In a world that often equates leadership with dominance, RM offers a refreshing alternative: leadership as service, as sacrifice, and as love.
Ultimately, the interview with Bella Freud offers a snapshot of an artist at a crossroads, not in a negative sense, but in a state of constant growth. RM is no longer the same young boy who debuted with a fiery intensity; he has become a man who understands that the greatest strength lies in vulnerability and adaptability. His story is far from over, and his journey continues to unfold, one window at a time.
Source: MSN News