BTS’s RM, whose real name is Kim Nam-joon, celebrated his birthday this year in the way he knows best—by giving back. On September 12, the rapper and leader of BTS donated a total of 200 million won (~$144,000), sending 100 million won (~$72,000) each to Seoul Asan Medical Center and Korea University Medical Center.
Both hospitals confirmed that the money will go directly toward helping patients and improving medical services. Seoul Asan Medical Center explained that the donation will cover treatment and surgery costs for underprivileged patients.
On the other hand, Korea University Medical Center announced that it will be used to improve the treatment environment and expand clinical services.
RM shared his reason for making the gift, saying, “I wanted to take part in something meaningful for my birthday, which is why I decided to make this contribution. I hope it can provide even a small amount of help to patients who desperately need treatment but are suffering due to financial difficulties.”
This is not the first time RM has marked his birthday with a generous act. Each year since 2021, he has chosen a different cause to support. In 2021 and 2022, he donated to the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation, helping with the restoration and preservation of cultural heritage.
In 2023, the 31-year-old rapper provided funds to the Korean Society of Legal Medicine, and last year, he donated to the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs to assist in campaigns for veterans.
This year’s birthday donation is also his second major contribution of 2025. Earlier this year, RM gave 100 million won to the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association to help people affected by wildfires in the Ulsan, Gyeongbuk, and Gyeongnam regions. At the time, he expressed his hope that the funds would support recovery efforts and help residents return to their normal lives as soon as possible.
On the work front, RM remains busy with the preparations for BTS’s 2026 album with groupmate after completing the military service. It is unclear if he will make a solo comeback; his last release was his second studio album, Right Place, Wrong Person, in May 2024. While nothing is confirmed about his solo projects, BTS will make an explosive return in spring next year with an album and a world tour.
