BTS's RM Opens First Solo Art Exhibition at SFMOMA
BTS leader RM has unveiled his personal art collection at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) in an exhibition titled 'RM x SFMOMA: Between You and Me.' The show, which opened to the public on October 3, 2026, and runs through February 7, 2027, is the first museum display of his collection. It features approximately 140 works from RM's personal holdings, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles, alongside pieces from SFMOMA's own collection. RM co-curated the exhibition with SFMOMA staff, describing it as an 'extensive self-introduction' that bridges personal and universal themes. The project originated during his military service when SFMOMA approached him, and he has described art as an emotional anchor for his life.
Key points
- The exhibition 'RM x SFMOMA: Between You and Me' opened to the public on October 3, 2026, following a media preview on September 29.
- The show runs through February 7, 2027, and is the first museum exhibition built around RM's personal art collection.
- RM co-curated the exhibition with SFMOMA co-curators America Castillo and Kim Hyo-eun.
- The exhibition features approximately 140 works from RM's collection, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, and design works.
- RM began collecting art about eight years ago, starting to visit museums regularly.
- The project took shape during RM's military service two years ago when SFMOMA approached him with the proposal.
Background
This exhibition follows RM's recent donation of 100 million won to the National Museum of Korea, where he serves as a global ambassador. The timing coincides with a broader trend of K-pop stars engaging with the art world, as seen in the expansion of Seoul's art calendar and the opening of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles.
How outlets are covering it
Allkpop emphasizes RM's personal connection to art, describing it as an emotional anchor and noting his candid admission of feeling like a 'wealthy person hoarding possessions.' Yonhap focuses on the scale of the exhibition, noting it as an 'extensive self-introduction' and highlighting the first-time display of most of his works in the United States. The Korea Herald highlights the donation to the National Museum of Korea and the exhibition's focus on Korean modern and contemporary art. All sources agree on the exhibition's title, dates, and RM's role as co-curator.
Why it matters
This exhibition marks a significant moment for RM, transitioning from a global K-pop star to a recognized art collector and curator. It showcases his personal interests and values, providing a deeper insight into his personality beyond his music career. The exhibition also highlights the growing intersection of K-pop and the art world, with BTS members increasingly engaging with cultural institutions and supporting the arts.
What to watch
The exhibition will run through February 7, 2027, allowing the public to view RM's collection and engage with his reflections through handwritten wall texts and a narrated audio guide. RM's continued involvement in art and cultural initiatives, such as his donation to the National Museum of Korea, suggests a sustained commitment to promoting Korean culture and the arts globally.
- BTS's RM shares the story behind his art collection at SFMOMA exhibition preview allkpop.com
- BTS leader RM visits SFMOMA ahead of exhibition: ‘San Francisco is one of the coolest cities’ San Francisco Chronicle
- BTS' RM to unveil personal art collection at San Francisco museum Yonhap News Agency
- BTS’ RM Reveals His Art Collection for New Exhibit, Explains Why He Felt ‘Embarrassed’ to Do So: Watch His Speech Yahoo
- BTS RM donates W100m to National Museum of Korea The Korea Herald
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