In a surprising revelation, RM, the leader of the global K-pop sensation BTS, has admitted that the thought of disbanding the group has crossed his mind "tens of thousands of times". This candid disclosure comes as the group prepares for a highly anticipated comeback in 2026, following the completion of all members' mandatory military service.
RM, also known as Kim Nam-joon, shared his inner thoughts during a Weverse live broadcast on December 6th, 2025. He spoke openly about the pressures, uncertainties, and hopes surrounding BTS's return after a hiatus. RM acknowledged being cautious about what he reveals, hinting at circumstances he couldn't fully disclose. He addressed questions about the group's activities in the latter half of 2025, stating, "Many people ask, 'Why did you waste the second half of 2025?' or 'Why didn't you do anything?' I also wanted to pursue various activities after being discharged, but there were circumstances I can't talk about. I don't have the right to explain everything, so I can't disclose it all".
The weight of the comeback is clearly a significant burden for the group. "I want to perform right away, but preparing for it requires so much, and the personal pressure is huge," RM confessed. He even admitted to struggling with sleep and considering seeking a prescription for sleeping pills. Despite their global superstar status, RM revealed that each member harbors worries about the future. "Everyone's worried though. 'How should we move forward?' Of course, things have changed for us. We've changed and so have you," he said.
RM emphasized that he can no longer speak for the entire group, as each member has evolved and now moves in their own direction. "I can't represent the whole team anymore, I'm just one person with my own thoughts. Each member has their own way, so things like 'fix this member' or 'tell the company' don't apply now".
The most startling revelation came when RM admitted to contemplating disbandment or an extended hiatus. "(We've) thought for tens of thousands of times whether it would be good for us to disband or to suspend activities," the BTS leader stated. He went on to explain that the driving force behind their continued unity is the strong bond between the members and their deep respect and love for their fans. "What has kept this team going is how much we love each other, and the love and respect we have for those watching this livestream," RM affirmed. He also mentioned that the group debated whether to pause again.
BTS is scheduled to reunite in 2026, with all seven members having completed their mandatory military service. In July 2025, they announced plans for a new album and a world tour in the spring of 2026. If the album is released as planned, it will be their first full-group album in nearly four years, since the release of the anthology album "Proof" and the "Yet to Come in Busan" concert in 2022. According to RM, the comeback album is nearly complete, and the members are diligently practicing to deliver their best performance.
RM offered a sincere apology for the extended hiatus and requested patience from fans as they work to create something worthy of the wait. "I'm truly sorry for making you wait so long," he stated. In closing, RM acknowledged his own fallibility and the inevitability of facing challenges. "As a human, I will make mistakes, and there will be times when I fail to meet your expectations. Everyone has concerns, but we must move forward. I will prepare well and show you," he concluded.
