SEOUL — RM, the leader of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, has been recognized as one of the most influential figures in the South Korean art market, joining prominent figures such as Lee Jae-yong's mother, Hong Ra-hee, the honorary director of the Leeum Museum of Art.
The findings were published in the 'Korea Art Market 2025' report, jointly released on October 12th by the Seoul National University Business Research Institute and the Paradise Culture Foundation. The list, compiled based on surveys of major domestic gallery officials and expert consultation, marks the first time a ranking of the top 20 list has been officially compiled, though without assigned ranks.
The report highlighted RM as an "enthusiastic art collector and cultural influencer," noting his frequent visits to domestic and international art museums and contemporary art exhibitions. His consistent sharing of these experiences on social media (SNS) has been credited with significantly boosting public interest in the arts. Furthermore, RM garnered attention with the announcement that he will host a special exhibition featuring his personal collection at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) in October of next year.
Other Key Figures Recognized
The report also praised other influential individuals shaping the Korean art landscape:
Hong Ra-hee, Honorary Director of Leeum Museum of Art: She was recognized for her role as a Samsung family member and an outstanding collector who has "formed the topography of the Korean art scene" by acquiring major works both domestically and internationally.
Suh Kyung-bae, Chairman: The Amorepacific chairman was acknowledged as a collector who established the Amorepacific Museum of Art (APMA), thereby "contributing to the expansion of public infrastructure for Korean art."
The list of twenty influential figures also includes artists such as Seo Do-ho, Lee Bae, Yang Hae-gyu, and Kim A-young, alongside industry leaders like Lee Sung-hoon, president of the Galleries Association of Korea, Patrick Lee, director of Frieze Seoul, and Do Hyung-tae, representative of Gallery Hyundai.
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