How BTS' RM Became the Leader Gen Z Needs Right Now 2025

How BTS’ RM became the leader Gen Z needs right now has become a defining conversation in 2025, particularly following his historic keynote speech at the APEC CEO Summit on October 29. Kim Namjoon, known globally as RM, delivered a powerful address to political and business leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region, cementing his position as not just a K-pop icon but a transformational voice for an entire generation seeking authenticity and purpose in leadership.

Who Is RM, and Why Does His Leadership Matter for Gen Z?

RM is the leader of BTS—the seven-member global phenomenon that has redefined modern pop culture. But his significance extends far beyond music. As the brain, emotional compass, and creative force behind BTS, RM represents a new paradigm of leadership that Gen Z craves: one built on vulnerability, intellectual rigor, and genuine human connection rather than ego and control. Unlike traditional leaders who demand dominance, RM leads through understanding, empathy, and the courage to admit imperfection. This approach has made him instrumental in establishing how BTS’ RM became the leader Gen Z needs right now.

The APEC CEO Summit Speech: RM’s Historic Moment

On October 29, 2025, at the Gyeongju Arts Center in South Korea, RM took center stage at the APEC CEO Summit to discuss “Cultural and Creative Industries in the APEC Region and the Soft Power of K-culture.” This marked the first time a K-pop artist has ever addressed such a prestigious international summit. His speech perfectly encapsulated why RM has become the leader Gen Z needs right now—bridging art, commerce, and humanity with eloquence and purpose.

Key Highlights from RM’s APEC Speech:

RM on K-pop’s global success: “K-pop is not just a genre of music. It is a 360-degree, total package of music, dance, performance, visual style, storytelling, music video and even social media.”
Diversity as the foundation: RM emphasized that “K-pop’s success came from respecting diversity and embracing world cultures but still holding onto Korea’s unique identity.”
The Bibimbap Metaphor: Comparing K-pop to the traditional Korean dish bibimbap, RM illustrated how diverse cultural elements—hip-hop, R&B, EDM—maintain their unique identities while harmonizing to create something new and universally appealing. This analogy became the centerpiece of why RM is the leader Gen Z needs right now, as it speaks to inclusion without dilution.
Support for the creative sector: RM called for greater recognition and support for artists and cultural industries, positioning culture as “like a river. It flows freely, different strains sometimes coming together in harmony.”

How RM Leads: The Philosophy Behind His Leadership

Intellect Meets Emotional Intelligence

RM is known for his philosophical depth—casually quoting Nietzsche, visiting art museums between concerts, and engaging in thoughtful conversations with fans. This blend of intellectual curiosity and emotional awareness makes him the leader Gen Z needs right now, someone who validates both the mind and the heart.

Leading by Example, Not Dominance

Within BTS, RM doesn’t overshadow his members; instead, he amplifies their voices. He bridges creative differences, ensures every member is heard, and operates as a facilitator rather than a dictator. This democratic approach to leadership—so essential to understanding how BTS’ RM became the leader Gen Z needs right now—stands in sharp contrast to traditional, hierarchical models.

Vulnerability as Strength

Through his solo album Indigo, RM openly explores themes of burnout, self-doubt, and identity. Tracks like “Wild Flower” and “Still Life” reveal a leader unafraid to show his struggles. This authenticity resonates deeply with Gen Z, proving that true leadership isn’t about always having the answers but about being honest when you don’t.

The “Speak Yourself” Movement: RM’s UN Legacy

Before his APEC triumph, RM’s watershed moment came when he spoke at the United Nations, delivering his now-iconic “Speak Yourself” message. This wasn’t merely a slogan—it became a generational mantra for young people learning to exist authentically and unapologetically. This is core to understanding how BTS’ RM became the leader Gen Z needs right now: he doesn’t preach self-love in an empty influencer way; he lives it through imperfection and continuous growth.

Why This Leadership Model Matters Now

In an era of performative activism, manufactured personas, and leadership defined by wealth or power, RM offers something revolutionary: genuine humanity. The leader Gen Z needs right now doesn’t claim to have it all figured out—and RM embodies this perfectly. He navigates success and selfhood authentically, encouraging fans to engage with art, philosophy, and their own emotional landscapes.

Public and Expert Reception

Cultural commentators, APEC leaders, and BTS fans have widely praised RM’s approach to leadership as both visionary and grounded. His APEC speech garnered international recognition for positioning K-pop and cultural industries as central to economic and social development in the Asia-Pacific region. Industry experts note that RM’s leadership blueprint—combining artistic brilliance with diplomatic finesse—offers valuable lessons for next-generation leaders across sectors.

What’s Next: RM’s Ongoing Leadership Journey

As RM continues his solo endeavors while remaining integral to BTS’s identity, his influence on global culture and Gen Z values shows no signs of waning. Future projects, international collaborations, and his continued advocacy for the creative sector promise to deepen the conversation about what leadership means in a rapidly changing world.

FAQs: Understanding How BTS’ RM Became the Leader Gen Z Needs Right Now

Q1: What specific qualities make RM the leader Gen Z needs right now?

RM combines intellectual depth, emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and authenticity—rare qualities in modern leadership. He leads through understanding rather than dominance, making him relatable to a generation seeking genuine connection.

Q2: Why was RM’s APEC CEO Summit speech historic, and how does it relate to his leadership?

RM was the first K-pop artist to address the APEC CEO Summit, using the platform to advocate for diversity, cultural exchange, and support for creative industries. This moment exemplifies why RM is the leader Gen Z needs right now—bridging entertainment, economics, and humanity.

Q3: How has RM’s “Speak Yourself” message influenced Gen Z leadership expectations?

The “Speak Yourself” movement became a mantra for authenticity and self-expression, setting a standard for leaders who validate personal growth over perfection. This directly addresses why Gen Z views RM as the leader they need right now.

Q4: What can other leaders learn from how RM leads BTS and the global community?

RM’s democratic approach to leadership—amplifying others, practicing active listening, and embracing vulnerability—offers a blueprint for the future. His model proves that effective leadership doesn’t require dominance but rather genuine human connection and continuous growth.

How BTS’ RM Became the Leader Gen Z Needs Right Now