In a heartwarming and candid moment shared with millions of fans worldwide, Kim Namjoon, better known as RM of the global K-pop phenomenon BTS, has finally passed his driving license test on the second attempt. The 31-year-old rapper and leader of the group broke the news during a livestream on the fan platform Weverse, where he appeared alongside his bandmates. The announcement quickly went viral, sparking joy and amusement among the ARMY, BTS's dedicated fanbase.
“Hello, I am Kim Namjoon, and I have gotten my driver's license,” the star announced with a beaming smile, clearly proud of the achievement. However, his bandmate Jung Hoseok, known professionally as J-Hope, could not resist teasing him. “I heard there are rumors that you failed once?” J-Hope quipped, prompting a sheepish admission from RM. “Yes, it's true. I crossed the center line while making a turn. The paint was worn out, so I didn't see it properly. But on the second try, I passed,” RM explained with a grin.
The confession resonated with many fans who appreciated his honesty and vulnerability. RM elaborated on his driving skills, noting that he now drives well but still struggles with parking. “I still need a few more parking lessons,” he joked. Perhaps the most surprising revelation, however, was that RM has no plans to purchase a car despite obtaining the license. “I don't intend to buy a car. I just wanted to try getting the license. I wanted to overcome my own trauma,” he stated, referring to the psychological hurdle created by his initial failure.
This milestone comes shortly after RM and fellow BTS member V completed their mandatory military service in South Korea in June 2025. The two were discharged together from a military base in Chuncheon City, where they were greeted by approximately 200 fans. In a spontaneous display of talent, RM played a saxophone piece for the crowd, reaffirming his artistic versatility. Since then, BTS has been focusing on music, with the ARMY eagerly awaiting news of a comeback from one of the most successful K-pop boy groups in history.
RM's driving license journey sheds light on the often-overlooked personal challenges faced by global superstars. For many, the ability to drive is a mundane necessity, but for someone with RM's level of fame, even taking a driving test can become a public ordeal. In South Korea, the driving test process is rigorous, consisting of a written exam, a closed-course skills test, and a road test. According to the Korea Road Traffic Authority, the pass rate for the practical driving test hovers around 70%, meaning that failure is not uncommon. RM's experience of failing due to a faded road marking highlights how minor environmental factors can disrupt an otherwise careful driver.
Background information on RM reveals that he was born on September 12, 1994, in Seoul, South Korea. He debuted as the leader of BTS in 2013 under Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE). Known for his deep voice, intellectual lyrics, and fluency in English, RM has played a pivotal role in BTS's global success. Beyond his musical talents, he is an avid art collector and has a keen interest in literature, often recommending books to fans. His personal growth, including overcoming the fear of driving, inspires many who see him as a role model for self-improvement.
The topic of driving among celebrities often attracts attention. Many K-pop idols have shared their driving experiences. For instance, BTS's Jungkook obtained his license in 2019 and has been photographed driving luxury cars. In contrast, RM's reluctance to buy a car after passing the test reflects a different personality—one that values overcoming internal barriers over material acquisitions. This aligns with RM's public persona as a thoughtful and introspective artist who often shares his emotional struggles with fans.
The livestream also provided a glimpse into the camaraderie within BTS. J-Hope's teasing and the supportive laughter of other members underscored the group's close bond, which has been a cornerstone of their appeal. Since their debut, BTS has released numerous chart-topping albums, including “Map of the Soul: 7” and “BE”, and has sold out stadiums worldwide. Their military enlistment temporarily paused activities, but their return has been highly anticipated. RM's driving license achievement adds a humanizing touch to the larger-than-life image of BTS.
Cultural context: In South Korea, obtaining a driver's license is a rite of passage for many young adults. The driving test system has faced criticism for being too difficult in some aspects, leading to a high number of retakes. However, the government has periodically revised the test to improve safety and fairness. The fact that RM, a global celebrity, experienced a common frustration like forgetting to check blind spots or misjudging lane markings makes him more relatable. His decision to share the failure openly also encourages others to not be ashamed of setbacks.
Looking ahead, RM has indicated that he will not rush into car ownership. Instead, he will rely on his bandmates or scheduled transportation. This practical approach suits his busy schedule, which includes songwriting, producing, and promoting new music with BTS. Fans remain curious about the group's upcoming projects. BTS has teased new music on their social media, and rumors suggest a full album release later this year. RM's role as the lead rapper and producer ensures his input will be central.
In conclusion to the factual reporting, RM's successful completion of the driving license test serves as a small but meaningful victory. It represents not just a skill acquired but a fear conquered. The story resonates because it shows that even those who have conquered the global stage can struggle with everyday tasks. The ARMY's reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing hope that RM will eventually enjoy driving. For now, the focus remains on his music and his journey as an artist. The image of RM holding his new driver's license photo, which he shared on Instagram, will be remembered as a lighthearted moment in BTS's ongoing narrative.
RM's journey through the second driving attempt also reflects broader themes of perseverance. In his livestream, he mentioned that he practiced extensively to ensure he would not repeat the same mistake. He credited his instructor and the support of his members for keeping his stress levels low. The BTS leader is known for his introspective songwriting, and fans often interpret his personal achievements as metaphors for the group's resilience. The driving test, in a way, parallels BTS's own struggles against obstacles in the music industry—tenacity eventually leads to success.
Social media has been flooded with memes and congratulatory messages. Some fans humorously suggested that RM should now take his bandmates on a road trip. Others debated whether RM would ever drive a car considering his eco-consciousness—he has spoken about environmental issues in the past. Regardless, the milestone has humanized him further. The news also serves as a reminder that behind the glossy music videos and sold-out concerts, BTS members are ordinary people navigating life's small trials.
Finally, it is worth noting that RM's admission about the worn-out road paint raises questions about infrastructure maintenance in South Korea. The incident occurred in a neighborhood where the road markings were not clearly visible, leading to the mistake. While RM did not specify the exact location, such issues are common in many countries. His experience inadvertently highlights the importance of proper road maintenance for driver safety. The Korean government has since launched a campaign to repaint road markings in high-traffic areas, though it is unclear if RM's case was a catalyst.
As BTS continues to dominate the global music scene, personal stories like RM's driving license achievement create a deeper connection with fans. The ARMY appreciates not only the artists' talents but also their vulnerability. In a world where celebrities often project perfection, RM's willingness to admit failure and share his progress is refreshing. His second attempt success is a testament to the fact that giving up is never an option, a lesson that transcends music and applies to everyday life.
Source: Promiflash.de News