RM of BTS Opens Up On Military Days Struggles; Going Without Sleep for 78 Hours

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JUNE 11,2025

BTS leader Kim Namjoon, known globally as RM, has pulled back the curtain on the intense personal battles he faced during his mandatory military service. In a candid solo livestream following his discharge on June 10, the celebrated artist revealed a harrowing struggle with severe insomnia and emotional exhaustion, which at one point saw him go 78 hours without sleep.

'I Lived Like a Zombie'

Describing the period as incredibly taxing, RM shared his raw experience with fans. 'I lived like a zombie,' he confessed, explaining that crippling anxiety and sleeplessness prompted him to seek professional help from a neuropsychiatrist. This led to a diagnosis of insomnia over a year ago, for which he still takes prescribed medication.

The K-pop icon detailed the alarming extent of his condition, revealing an instance where he endured 78 hours of sleeplessness. This extreme deprivation left him physically and mentally depleted. In a particularly poignant admission, he shared that for the first time since he was 14, he was unable to write music, a creative silence that deeply unsettled him. He started doubting his own resilience, questioning himself, 'Why are you so weak? You've been through more challenging times already.'

With his primary creative outlet blocked, RM turned to journaling to process his emotions. 'Songwriting felt impossible,' he explained, highlighting the profound impact the situation had on his identity as an artist.

During the emotional livestream, RM also shared a heartfelt, clever message with his dedicated fanbase, known as ARMY. 'I was in the army, but I couldn't see you in the army. You know what I mean? There was no ARMY.' This touching wordplay resonated deeply with fans who have eagerly awaited the group's return.

Also Read: BTS Members Jimin and Jungkook Return From Military Service After 18 Months

A "HUGE" Comeback and Fan Reactions

Looking ahead, RM ignited excitement for the group's future. 'Stay tuned and be there for our next ALBUM. It's gonna be HUGE,' he teased, sending waves of anticipation through the global fandom. While his vulnerability was met with an outpouring of love, it also sparked anger. Many fans expressed fury at the harsh conditions and directed frustration towards HYBE, speculating that internal company drama may have exacerbated his stress.

As he steps back into his role, RM appears ready to channel his experiences into his art. 'I'm ready to hit the ground running again as RM of BTS,' he declared. 'Thank you to everyone who waited and looked after us.'

Also Read: RM of BTS Wins Favourite K-Pop Artist Award at the American Music Awards 2025