BTS's RM Explains "Namjooning", Here's How The Word Came To Be

RM coined the verb “namjooning”, but what does it really mean?

When BTS went on vacation in the summer of 2019, fans asked RM what he up to. On Weverse, he replied by saying, “I’m namjooning.”

In other words, he was just being himself, Kim Namjoon, and doing things he enjoyed doing on vacation. Since then, fans have added “namjooning” to their BTS lexicon. Many use it to describe activities such as hanging out in nature or visiting a museum.

Recently, Ask Anything Chat posted a new clip from a past interview with BTS. In it, RM was asked how he felt about ARMY using the term. In response, he quoted the Urban Dictionary definition, which defines “namjooning” as “the act of living as Kim Namjoon.” This includes, “taking walks through parks, admiring nature, hanging out with crabs, and having fun with friends.”

After hearing the definition, Jimin said that it would be nice to see “namjooning” added to the dictionary.

RM previously answered questions about the word in an interview with Rolling Stone magazine.

The term ‘Namjooning’ has become synonymous in the fandom with taking time to yourself or going on nature walks. How do you feel about ARMY adopting these little wholesome terms from you and incorporating it into their own lives?

— Rolling Stone

He said, “I’m very thankful, but also feel a sense of responsibility. I began music because I wanted to share my story and become a positive influence to many people, so I would be honored if I can continue to show my hard work and the results of my efforts.”