RM, the leader of global K-pop sensation BTS, is set to make history as the first K-pop artist to collaborate with the prestigious San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) since its founding. The groundbreaking partnership will see RM take on the role of guest curator, presenting carefully selected pieces from his personal art collection alongside works from the museum's renowned holdings.
The collaboration, announced by SFMOMA on October 3, will culminate in a special exhibition titled "RM x SFMOMA" scheduled to run from October 2026 through February 2027. The comprehensive showcase will feature more than 200 works of art, creating an unprecedented dialogue between RM's private collection and the museum's extensive archives. The exhibition represents a first-of-its-kind partnership for the institution, which chose RM specifically for his deep appreciation of contemporary art and his refined collecting sensibilities.
As an active curator rather than simply a featured collector, RM will play a central role in shaping how the artworks are presented to visitors. The exhibition aims to organically connect the visual and conceptual contexts of both collections, offering museum-goers unique insight into RM's aesthetic philosophy and collecting approach. This curatorial involvement marks a significant departure from traditional celebrity art exhibitions, positioning RM as a serious voice in the contemporary art world.
"We live in an era defined by boundaries," RM explained in a statement about the upcoming exhibition. "I hope this exhibition becomes a space to reflect on the boundaries between East and West, Korea and the United States, modern and contemporary, the individual and the universal. There is no single correct way to view the works, but I hope this becomes a small yet solid bridge for many."
Janet Bishop, SFMOMA's chief curator, expressed enthusiasm about the unique opportunity the collaboration presents. "Visitors will have an unprecedented opportunity to see RM's beautiful and contemplative collection of paintings and sculptures displayed alongside the museum's holdings and experience the dialogue between them," Bishop stated. The museum specifically approached RM for this project, recognizing his genuine passion for contemporary art and his thoughtful approach to collecting.
RM's personal collection spans a diverse range of artistic perspectives and cultural backgrounds, featuring works by leading figures in Korean contemporary art as well as prominent international artists. Many of these pieces will be displayed publicly for the first time, offering art enthusiasts a rare glimpse into the private collection of one of the world's most influential musicians. The selection represents a broad spectrum of cultures, artistic movements, and creative approaches.
As one of the largest modern art museums in the United States, SFMOMA houses an extensive and internationally acclaimed collection that spans multiple mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, architecture, design, and media art. The museum's collaboration with RM represents its commitment to bridging different cultural perspectives and fostering cross-cultural dialogue through contemporary art. This partnership underscores the growing recognition of K-pop artists as serious cultural influencers beyond the music industry.
