BTS frontman RM is showing his art collection. Fans are flocking to see it
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is experiencing high attendance and record-breaking merchandise sales due to an exhibition featuring the personal art collection of BTS member RM. The event has drawn a new demographic of visitors to the museum, driven by the 'Namjooning' trend among the band's global fanbase.
Why it matters
This demonstrates the significant influence of pop culture icons on traditional arts institutions and the evolving nature of fan engagement.
The gift shop at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is expecting a huge rush over the next few months.
"This is hands down the most inventory that we've ever front-loaded for an exhibition," said the museum's director of retail, Shane Salvata.
The reason for the merch overdrive is K-pop band BTS — or, more specifically, its leader, RM. The popstar is showing art from his personal collection for the first time at a museum, and SFMOMA is packed with fans clamoring to see the works and buy souvenirs.
Among those there for RM x SFMOMA: Between You and Me on the sold-out first day of previews are Bay Area twenty-somethings Joi Karra and Bre Walker.
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