RM’s Art Journey: From Museum Visitor to Global Collector – “RM x SFMOMA” Exhibition Announced

🖼 From Visitor to Host

In May 2022, Kim Nam-joon visited the special exhibition “Invitation to a Collector” at the National Museum of Korea, paying tribute to the late Lee Kun-hee with a simple yet heartfelt message: “Thank you for the wonderful exhibition” (좋은 전시 감사합니다).

Fast forward to October 2026, and RM is no longer just a visitor—he has become a collector himself, now inviting the world into his own artistic universe at San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. What began as admiration for great masters has evolved into a meaningful contribution to the global art scene.

🖼 “RM x SFMOMA” – A Landmark Exhibition

RM will present his personal art collection in the exhibition “RM x SFMOMA”, running from October 3, 2026 to February 7, 2027, featuring approximately 200 works of art.

He revealed that he first received the proposal in late 2024 and has been working intensely on the project ever since:

“Since I started visiting museums in 2018, I’ve been learning step by step. Preparing this exhibition feels both humbling and meaningful… I will do my best to create an inspiring experience that is worth your time.”

🖼 A Bridge Between Perspectives

RM also shared his vision for the exhibition:

“I don’t want to impose a specific way of viewing these works. Whether out of curiosity or research, every perspective is welcome. I simply hope this exhibition can serve as a small but meaningful bridge for many people.”

🖼 An Unprecedented Scale

The scale of “RM x SFMOMA” is truly remarkable.

Out of the 200 pieces on display, around 150 come directly from RM’s personal collection—an extraordinary number for a private collection showcased in a major museum.

Even more impressive is the historical range of the collection, spanning from the 13th century to the present day. It includes traditional Korean art from the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties, alongside works by modern masters such as Chang Ucchin and Yun Hyong-keun.

Through this collection, RM presents a unique vision—one that traces the full depth and evolution of Korean artistic beauty across centuries.