In October 2026, RM, the leader of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, will debut his personal art collection at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA). This exhibition marks a significant milestone in RM’s journey as an artist and marks the first time his private collection will be showcased publicly. The event forms part of an unprecedented partnership with SFMOMA and promises to offer a unique cultural experience, blending RM’s artistic sensibilities with one of the most prominent modern art museums in the United States.
The exhibition will feature 200 works of art, drawn from RM’s personal selection as well as from SFMOMA’s extensive holdings. This fusion of personal and institutional collections is designed to encourage a cultural dialogue between modern Korean art and international contemporary art. RM’s curated selection includes works that reflect his deep engagement with visual arts, highlighting his passion and understanding of various artistic traditions. The exhibition is not merely an art display, but an exploration of the dynamic relationship between different cultures and artistic expressions. By bridging the gap between Eastern and Western art, and between modern and contemporary genres, RM’s collection encourages reflection on the evolving global dialogue in the art world.
The themes explored in the exhibition are multifaceted, delving into the tension between the individual and the universal. The selection aims to challenge the boundaries that have long defined cultural and artistic norms, especially those between Korea and the United States. By showcasing works that represent both the individuality of artists and the universal experiences that art can convey, the exhibit invites viewers to reconsider how personal identities intersect with broader cultural narratives.
For RM, art has always been a deeply personal passion. While he is best known as the leader of BTS, an international music phenomenon, his interest in visual arts has always been an integral part of his creative identity. RM’s appreciation for art extends far beyond his role in music, with his interest in art history and contemporary visual culture influencing his approach to music and the creative processes behind BTS’s projects. His personal art collection reflects this passion, featuring works that resonate with his worldview and artistic philosophy.
RM’s involvement in this exhibition is more than just a showcase of his personal interests; it serves as a platform to introduce his artistic vision to the world. Through this collaboration with SFMOMA, RM aims to bring attention to the dynamic intersections between music, art, and cultural exchange. This exhibition highlights how artists can inspire dialogue across different forms of creative expression, offering a glimpse into how RM’s understanding of art continues to shape his work as a performer and global icon.
Given BTS’s immense global popularity, this exhibition is expected to attract significant international attention. With RM’s large social media following, including 49 million Instagram followers, the exhibition will undoubtedly draw visitors from all over the world to San Francisco. Fans of BTS, art enthusiasts, and cultural tourists alike are anticipated to flock to the museum, eager to experience firsthand the art that has shaped one of the most influential figures in contemporary music and culture.
This debut exhibition is a testament to RM’s growth as an artist beyond music, showcasing his expanding influence in the world of visual arts. It also underscores the increasingly important role of cultural figures in shaping conversations about global art, identity, and expression. As one of the most influential voices in the entertainment industry, RM’s collaboration with SFMOMA offers a fresh perspective on how modern artists can use their platforms to foster deeper understanding and connections between cultures. This exhibition represents a unique opportunity to experience RM’s artistic world in a new light, offering a broader, more nuanced view of the intersection between music, visual arts, and cultural dialogue.