RM, leader of K-pop supergroup BTS, opened up about the struggles and pressure he faced ahead of the group’s full comeback. There were even moments when he considered disbanding or halting activities altogether.
During a recent Weverse Live broadcast, RM candidly shared the emotional weight he has been carrying as the septet prepares for its long-awaited return next year.
Despite all members completing their military service in June, BTS has not released full-group music for six months, increasing expectations for their highly-anticipated return into the spotlight.
“We cannot easily come back until we present something that satisfies our fans. Since last month, I haven’t slept again. I was even considering whether to get a prescription for sleeping pills,” he admitted, as quoted by Korean news outlet Chosun Daily.
Still, RM assured fans that progress is underway: “The album is almost ready, and we practiced together yesterday as well.”
Responding to concerns about their hiatus, RM stressed that the lack of activities was never intentional.
“Some ask, ‘Why did you waste the second half of 2025?’ but we didn’t want to. Our last concert was in October 2022, and over three years have passed. I want to perform immediately,” he said.
He also hinted at undisclosed factors that affected his post-enlistment plans: “Some preparation is needed. After being discharged, I wanted to pursue various activities, but there were reasons I couldn’t. I can’t disclose everything because I don’t have the right to speak on it.”
RM asked fans to understand the complexities surrounding their return, “It might sound like an excuse, but considering the scale and various situations, I ask for your understanding. We will definitely return, and while it might not always meet your expectations, we will do our best.”
He also admitted that he had considered “tens of thousands of times” whether it “would be better” to disband their 12-year-old group or stop activities entirely. Ultimately, he said, their decision to continue is grounded in their “love among members” and “respect for their fans.”
Reflecting on life behind the scenes, RM stressed the need for artists to experience life fully in order to create meaningful music.
“We need to live our lives to sing and create music. If someone only lives in front of the camera and doesn’t live their life, what fragrance would their songs have?” he said. “Only then can an individual’s personality resonate universally. Singers are flawed and lacking, but I believe our ‘clumsiness’ and various aspects will contribute to what we create.”
Some fans speculated that his remarks subtly referenced dating rumors involving his fellow member Jungkook and aespa’s Winter, though RM did not mention any incident directly.
RM ended his message on a humble and determined note: “As a human, I will make mistakes, and there will be times when I fail to meet your expectations. Everyone has concerns, but we must move forward. I will prepare well and show you.”
