Who says K-pop belongs only on concert stages? At Stanford University, BTS leader RM’s approach to life has become the inspiration for an academic course exploring mental health and personal well-being. The prestigious American university is offering a three-unit introductory seminar titled “Namjooning, and other well-being inspiration from BTS,” bringing the global influence of South Korean music into the classroom.
The course takes its name from “Namjooning,” a term popularized by fans to describe the calming activities associated with BTS leader Kim Namjoon. These include visiting museums, appreciating art, reading literature, cycling, spending time in nature, and journaling. What began as a fan expression has now found a place in an academic discussion about healthier ways of living.
But Stanford is taking the concept beyond celebrity admiration. The seminar examines topics such as anxiety, sleep, creative struggles, self-awareness, diet, exercise, and mental health treatment. Students will explore scientific research and quantitative evidence to understand which well-being practices are effective, how they work, and where uncertainties remain.
The course is taught by James R. Jacobs, a Stanford associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, rather than RM himself. Designed primarily for first-year students, the seminar combines academic readings, classroom discussions, written assignments, and analytical exercises. Its final project draws inspiration from RM’s 2022 solo album, Indigo, which explores themes of identity, personal growth, and reflection.
For BTS, the Stanford course demonstrates how the group’s cultural influence can extend beyond music charts and sold-out concerts. By connecting a global pop phenomenon with research-based discussions about mental health, the university is showing how familiar cultural interests can serve as starting points for serious academic exploration.
And perhaps that is the biggest takeaway: Sometimes, the inspiration for a university classroom can come from something as simple as taking a walk, opening a book, or appreciating a piece of art.