RM & G-Dragon at APEC: K-Pop's Message of Unity on the World Stage
BTS''s RM delivered a powerful speech comparing K-Pop to 'bibimbap,' while G-Dragon is set to perform. See how two of K-Pop''s biggest icons are shaping global conversations at the 2025 APEC Summit.
From a thoughtful speech on cultural diversity to a headline performance, two of K-Pop’s most influential figures are representing the industry at the highest level, proving the genre’s impact extends far beyond music charts.
K-Pop Takes the Floor at APEC
When global leaders gathered in Gyeongju for the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit, the conversation wasn’t just about trade and policy. K-Pop took a prominent role, with two of its biggest icons, RM of BTS and G-Dragon, stepping into the spotlight. RM delivered a landmark speech on October 29, while G-Dragon is slated to give a special performance at the welcome dinner on October 31. Their presence signifies a powerful acknowledgment of K-Pop’s role as a major force in global cultural diplomacy.
RM’s Philosophy: K-Pop is “Bibimbap”
In a historic first for a K-Pop artist, RM addressed the summit with a compelling message. He beautifully compared K-Pop to bibimbap (비빔밥), the iconic Korean mixed rice dish. “K-Pop is like bibimbap,” he stated, explaining that just as the dish harmonizes many different ingredients while allowing each to keep its unique identity, K-Pop succeeds by embracing global cultures while maintaining its Korean roots. He argued that its success stems not from “the superiority of a specific culture, but from respecting diversity.” RM also gave a heartfelt credit to the global fandom, ARMY, for being the “key driving force” that broke down cultural and language barriers, creating a worldwide community inspired by the music’s message.
G-Dragon: The Ambassador of Culture
Following RM’s thoughtful address, another legend takes the stage later this week. G-Dragon, an official ambassador for the APEC summit, will be the sole K-Pop artist performing at the welcome dinner. This role is a natural fit for the BIGBANG leader, who has long been a trendsetter in music, fashion, and art. His performance is not just entertainment; it’s a symbolic act. As noted by the APEC preparatory team, G-Dragon is seen as the “optimal figure” to convey the summit’s values of “connection and sustainability.” While RM articulated the ‘why’ behind K-Pop’s influence, G-Dragon will embody its captivating and creative energy.
Fact-Check
- Confirmed: RM of BTS gave a speech at the APEC CEO Summit on October 29.
- Confirmed: G-Dragon is the official K-Pop performer for the APEC welcome dinner on October 31.
- Confirmed: RM used the “bibimbap” analogy to describe K-Pop’s blend of Korean identity and global diversity.
- Uncertain: The specific songs G-Dragon will perform at the welcome dinner have not been publicly announced.
Practical Takeaways
- A New Level of Influence: K-Pop is now a key topic at major international economic forums.
- The “Bibimbap” Model: K-Pop’s success is a lesson in how to blend local identity with global trends.
- Fandom Power: Fan communities like ARMY are recognized as powerful agents of cultural exchange.
- Icons as Ambassadors: Artists like RM and G-Dragon are serving as cultural diplomats on the world stage.
Glossary
- APEC (에이펙; ei-pek): Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, a high-level forum for 21 major economies in the Pacific Rim.
- Bibimbap (비빔밥; bi-bim-bap): A popular Korean dish of mixed rice with meat, seasoned vegetables, and chili paste, used by RM as a metaphor for K-Pop’s harmonious diversity.
- ARMY (아미; a-mi): The official and highly organized global fandom for the group BTS.
As K-Pop continues to grow, its leaders are ensuring its message of unity and creativity is heard in every corner of the world.