Among fourth-generation boy groups today, Stray Kids stand out as one of the most prominent acts, boasting numerous impressive achievements both domestically and internationally. Most recently, the group topped the U.S. Top 10 Albums and U.S. Top 10 CD Albums charts, according to data released by Luminate on the 14th.

Stray Kids’ current leading position would not be possible without the guidance of their leader, Bang Chan, who is widely known for his versatility. Not only is he the group’s leader, but he is also a sкιℓℓed performer capable of both singing and rapping, as well as a bona fide music producer—handling everything from writing lyrics, arranging and beat-making to vocal production.

Bang Chan is one of the few idols of the newer generation who actively oversees and deeply participates in the entire music production process for his own group. This is precisely what makes him share many similarities with RM, the leader of “pop icons of the 21st century” - BTS!

Despite never having collaborated or shared a personal bond with BTS, Bang Chan’s parallel journey as a leader allows him to resonate deeply with the group. He even consistently show great respect for what BTS—especially RM—have accomplished. During a conversation with fans, Bang Chan did not hesitate to mention RM directly, sharing his thoughts from the perspective of a fellow K-pop group leader.

He stated, “RM writes lyrics very well. He’s known to be one of the best leaders and he’s one of my biggest role models. He’s one of the coolest guys out there and really smart as well. I may not be, but he is one of the best leaders.”

During the same broadcast, Bang Chan was listening to “Seoul” from RM’s mixtape mono. He shared sincerely, “The first time I heard this song, I became overwhelmed with feelings. It almost made me cry because it resonated with me a lot". 

Bang Chan did not mention RM merely out of professional courtesy—he genuinely expressed admiration for the BTS leader’s talent and character. His praise for RM’s lyric-writing sкιℓℓs, as well as calling him “one of the best leaders,” highlights just how deeply RM has influenced Bang Chan.

This further proves that RM is not only beloved by ARMYs, but also regarded by fellow artists as an ideal role model for leadership. Moreover, as Bang Chan himself is an accomplished music producer, his recognition carries significant weight. His words underscore RM’s outstanding artistic ability and stature.

Interestingly, many ARMYs even consider Bang Chan part of the fandom, as he has repeatedly expressed his admiration for BTS and their music over the years—not just for RM. For example, during a livestream in 2022, he received an outpouring of purple heart emojis in the comments when he played BTS’s “Mikrokosmos.” He then remarked, "Yeah, I mean, the members of BTS are legends. They paved the way. You have to admit that they paved the way. Anyway, mad respect to BTS. They're amazing." 

ARMYs deeply appreciate Bang Chan’s genuine respect and sincere affection for BTS and RM, commenting:

- I really appreciate this member , he always praises and talks respectfully about BTS. So, yeah thank you 

- Why fandoms should stop fιgнтing w/ each other cuz their idols often admire or are friends w/ each other.

- Seeing Bang Chan praise RM makes my heart so full. Leader to leader respect

- Takes one to know one Bang Chan. Both of them have been and are absolutely incredible in their roles as leaders and evolving their own talents/sкιℓℓs. Regardless of fanwars and opinions born out of teenage angst, both of these young men have shown and proved.

- RM isn't just any cheap idol; he's a born artist, a complete composer with incredible lyricism

- You’re one of the best too channie. Thank you for praising our best leader

- Takes one to know one, Chan. Such kinds words from a kind soul to another kind soul!

- Real recognizes real. This is why I respect Bang Chan even more now

- So proud of our golden leader, his musical talent and leadership are beyond words

- Bang Chan is absolutely right — RM really is one of the best leaders in K-pop history

- Couldn’t agree more with Chan. RM’s lyricism is on another level. His talent in leadership is also proved

- I need a Bang Chan x RM collab ASAP — two brilliant leaders in one track would be legendary.

- They should really meet one day. Imagine the deep conversation these two would have about music and leadership