ARMYs Celebrate BTS RM’s Recognition for Advocacy Against Violence
On December 12, fans of BTS, known as ARMYs, celebrated the recent recognition of RM, the group’s leader, for his impactful contributions to combating violence against women. This acknowledgment stems from his inclusion in The Pixel Project’s list of “16 Male Role Models Helping to Stop Violence Against Women”, officially released on December 4.
About The Pixel Project
The Pixel Project, established in 2009, is a dedicated non-profit organization focused on the eradication of violence against women (VAW) through various educational campaigns and initiatives that merge popular culture with advocacy.
RM’s Place on the List
RM was honored with the ninth position among the significant figures recognized. His proactive stance in addressing earlier controversies related to misogynistic lyrics in BTS songs was especially highlighted. The acknowledgment underscored his efforts to take accountability by enrolling in women and gender studies courses, along with collaborating with a women’s studies professor to review his work.
RM has been selected by “The Pixel Project”as one of the Male Role Models who are making a positive impact by helping to stop violence against women.📎 https://t.co/SPzKK8onug pic.twitter.com/kexN7ZSx3m
— Pop Core (@TheePopCore) December 12, 2024
Community Reactions: Support and Criticism
While many ARMYs applauded the recognition as deserved, it also generated a wave of criticism, particularly from supporters of female idols who questioned RM’s efforts in effectively addressing VAW. Detractors pointed to his associations, including links to individuals accused of sexual misconduct, which they argued undermined the credibility of his role in advocacy.
His fan wishing harm for 16 years old girl https://t.co/siAY7AieVb pic.twitter.com/ySG0yd1DPa
— salep🩵🍀 (@NJ1soon) December 12, 2024
meanwhile his fandom: – https://t.co/uHO3NycmGr pic.twitter.com/jRAhqapmPL
— ᴍᴇᴢꪶ (@mezdome) December 12, 2024
Critics voiced strong opinions, questioning RM’s impact and alleging that his fandom has not only harassed women but has also failed to hold him accountable for failing to call out misogynistic behavior within his fanbase.
what exactly has he done to help women? His fans harass women daily, he’s still friends with women beaters, and all he talks about is paving the way BFFR pic.twitter.com/MB3a3BTFpA https://t.co/sSswV3MSz7
— Æ♡..🏁 || rosie (@karosa00_) December 12, 2024
no shade i don’t think any man should be regarded as a role model when it comes to feminism https://t.co/I7O9QelIUc
— 🧃 nes (@esnupijoy) December 12, 2024
Supporters Rally Behind RM
In the face of criticism, RM’s supporters were quick to respond, emphasizing the positive changes he has championed. They noted that RM has faced professional backlash for openly supporting women’s rights and highlighted his role in implementing gender sensitivity training within HYBE, the company behind BTS.
Namjoon literally got blacklisted by korean men for being a woman supporter. He is never going to be the bad guy y’all want him to be. https://t.co/Ov1RZU4Nbz
— lia 𓍯 (@jmndiorz) December 12, 2024
“what impact”he’s the reason why hybe has gender sensitivity training for their trainees. Can’t say the same for other idols https://t.co/SBoo3dVgvk pic.twitter.com/ktxkPSWCsa
— say (@sambalsmatah) December 12, 2024
The ongoing dialogue surrounding RM’s recognition reflects broader societal issues regarding accountability in the entertainment industry, especially concerning gender dynamics. Such discussions are crucial in evaluating the role of public figures in promoting social change.
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