RM

Kim Nam-joon, known professionally as RM (formerly Rap Monster), is a South Korean rapper, songwriter, and record producer born on September 12, 1994. He is best known as the leader and main rapper of the global boy band BTS, managed under Big Hit Music. Recognized for his introspective lyricism and philosophical themes, he serves as a primary songwriter and producer for many of the group's releases.

Born in Seoul and raised in Ilsan, RM developed an early passion for literature and poetry before entering the underground Korean hip-hop scene as a teenager under the moniker Runch Randa. In 2010, he became the first member recruited to join Big Hit Entertainment's new music group, which debuted in June 2013 as BTS. He formally updated his stage name from Rap Monster to RM in 2017 to reflect a broader creative vision.

Alongside his group activities, RM has cultivated a distinct solo music career. He released his self-titled debut mixtape in 2015, followed by the critically acclaimed mixtape Mono in 2018. His official solo debut studio album, Indigo, arrived in December 2022 and achieved high positioning on international charts, including the Billboard 200. He released his second solo studio album, Right Place, Wrong Person, in May 2024, featuring diverse alternative and hip-hop influences.

Beyond his musical output, RM is known as an avid art collector and cultural patron, frequently advocating for contemporary Korean art and museum preservation. After completing his mandatory South Korean military service in June 2025, he returned to public creative endeavors and group activities with BTS.