BTS’ RM has been widely recognized for having endorsement of humanitarian causes, including wide donations to those in need. Last year, the idol donated $70,277 to South Korea’s Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs on his birthday. Despite the idol’s desire to support uniformed personnel, including soldiers, police officers, and firefighters, his funds might be diverted to other purposes.
The Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs caused a commotion among the K-Netizens and BTS’ fans, better known as ARMY, with this latest statement. It was reported by different South Korean media outlets that there’s no way of confirming whether these funds were used according to RM’s intentions. Under the current law, all donations are collected in a single account for supporting national veterans, mixing them with other resources for national meritorious persons.
Despite the ministry’s website continuing to indicate that the donors can specify which area their donations will support, there are still no regulations. The misleading has created a negative atmosphere surrounding the donations to the military. Stay tuned for further news!
Update October 18, 2025
A Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs spokesperson, Haeri Joo, contacted Music Mundial to clear the air on the ongoing situation, to explain that RM’s donation in September 2024 was a non-designated (general) donation without specifying the purpose, and also reported that they will review potential amendments to the relevant law to allow the designation of specific recipient groups, and will continue improving the system to ensure that the public can participate in veterans’ donations in a more meaningful way.
“Accordingly, the donation was used for welfare projects for national merit recipients in accordance with the fund’s operation plan.”
Read the full statement by the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs: