Kim Nam-joon (Korean: 김남준; born September 12, 1994), known professionally as RM (formerly Rap Monster), is a South Korean rapper, songwriter, and record producer. He is widely recognized as the leader of the internationally acclaimed South Korean boy band BTS. Throughout his career, RM has been instrumental in shaping the group's musical direction, known for his lyrical depth, introspective themes, and advocacy for mental health and social awareness. Born in Sangdo-dong, Dongjak District, Seoul, and raised in the Ilsan district of Goyang, South Korea, RM exhibited high academic aptitude from a young age. He scored in the top 1% of the nation on university entrance examinations and has frequently been noted for his reported IQ of 148. His early interest in language and literature—evidenced by his childhood poetry writing—was complemented by an interest in hip-hop, ignited after hearing the song "Fly" by the group Epik High. RM taught himself English largely by watching the American sitcom *Friends* with his mother, a skill that eventually became vital for his role as the primary English-language spokesperson for BTS. Before his official debut, RM was an active participant in the underground Korean hip-hop scene under the alias "Runch Randa," where he collaborated with other underground artists. In 2010, he was recruited by Big Hit Entertainment CEO Bang Si-hyuk after an audition facilitated by the rapper Sleepy. RM became the first member of the group that would evolve into BTS, officially debuting in June 2013. As the leader of BTS, RM has been central to the group's meteoric rise to global prominence. His leadership style, often described as collaborative and stabilizing, has been credited with helping the group navigate the complexities of international fame. Beyond his work with the band, RM has established a significant solo career. He released his self-titled mixtape *RM* in 2015 and his second mixtape, *mono.*, in 2018. His official solo debut, the studio album *Indigo* (2022), showcased a transition toward a more alternative and introspective sound, earning critical acclaim and charting successfully on the Billboard 200. In 2024, he released his sophomore album, *Right Place, Wrong Person*, further diversifying his artistic palette. RM’s cultural impact extends far beyond music. He is a passionate art collector and enthusiast, often documenting his visits to museums and galleries—a hobby his fans have termed "Namjooning." This interest has led to philanthropy, including significant donations to the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation for the restoration of traditional Korean artifacts. As a public figure, he has frequently represented BTS at high-profile international forums, including multiple addresses at the United Nations General Assembly, where he advocated for self-love, social responsibility, and the potential of the younger generation. His influence is characterized by a blend of artistic innovation, intellectual curiosity, and a consistent commitment to authentic, socially conscious expression.