BTS leader RM has become the inspiration behind a Stanford University course that explores mental health and well-being, showing how his everyday habits have gained attention beyond the music industry.
According to a November 9 report, the prestigious American university has introduced a seminar titled Namjooning, and Other Well-Being Inspiration from BTS as part of its Introductory Seminars (IntroSems) program for undergraduate students.
The course, officially listed as PSYC 65N, is a three-unit class offered during the fall quarter of the 2026–2027 academic year.
It is taught by Professor James R. Jacobs, an associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences who also holds leadership roles in student health and well-being at Stanford.
What makes the course particularly interesting is its connection to RM's personal approach to life.
The term "Namjooning" comes from RM's real name, Kim Namjoon, and is commonly used by BTS fans to describe his peaceful activities, such as visiting museums, riding bicycles, reading books, and spending time in nature.
These everyday habits have become the starting point for a university course exploring ways to improve mental health.
In its course description, Stanford introduces RM as the leader of BTS, a group that has become a global cultural phenomenon.
The university also recognizes him for his work as a musician, songwriter, and performer, while noting his influence on conversations about mental health and well-being.
Rather than simply discussing RM's hobbies, the course uses them to examine a wider range of topics, including sleep, anxiety, creative challenges, self-awareness, self-love, exercise, nutrition, therapy, and other approaches to mental health.
Stanford explains that the seminar is fundamentally focused on practices that support mental health and well-being.
However, students are encouraged to go beyond familiar wellness advice.
The course description emphasizes that simply praising common suggestions such as "Get enough sleep!" is not enough.
Instead, students will examine research and data to understand whether different well-being practices actually work and who benefits from them.
Learning materials include academic studies, fiction, artwork, and YouTube videos, bringing together scientific research and cultural experiences.
The course also lists several expectations for students, including a desire to thrive at Stanford and in life, "an appetite for data," and "a healthy respect for BTS."
Another notable detail is the final project, which draws inspiration from RM's first solo studio album, Indigo, released in 2022.
The album reflects RM's experiences and thoughts throughout his twenties, making it a meaningful reference for students exploring personal growth and self-understanding.
Following news of the course, international BTS fans shared excited reactions on social media.
One fan joked, "You mean I can think about Namjoon all day and get academic credits for it? Sign me up!"
Another wrote, "I'm going to get a PhD in Namjooning."
Others expressed admiration that RM's lifestyle had become a topic of academic study at one of the world's leading universities.
The course also comes during a period of growing connections between RM and the San Francisco Bay Area.
BTS performed at Stanford Stadium in May as part of their Arirang world tour, an event also mentioned in the university's course description.
RM has also been involved in the exhibition RM x SFMOMA: Between You and Me at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, where his interest in visual art has gained further attention.
With Stanford now exploring the concept of "Namjooning" through academic research, RM's influence is extending beyond music and art into discussions about mental health, personal growth, and everyday well-being.
BTS leader RM has become the inspiration behind a Stanford University course that explores mental health and well-being, showing how his everyday habits have gained attention beyond the music industry.
According to a November 9 report, the prestigious American university has introduced a seminar titled Namjooning, and Other Well-Being Inspiration from BTS as part of its Introductory Seminars (IntroSems) program for undergraduate students.
The course, officially listed as PSYC 65N, is a three-unit class offered during the fall quarter of the 2026–2027 academic year.
It is taught by Professor James R. Jacobs, an associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences who also holds leadership roles in student health and well-being at Stanford.
What makes the course particularly interesting is its connection to RM's personal approach to life.
The term "Namjooning" comes from RM's real name, Kim Namjoon, and is commonly used by BTS fans to describe his peaceful activities, such as visiting museums, riding bicycles, reading books, and spending time in nature.
These everyday habits have become the starting point for a university course exploring ways to improve mental health.
In its course description, Stanford introduces RM as the leader of BTS, a group that has become a global cultural phenomenon.
The university also recognizes him for his work as a musician, songwriter, and performer, while noting his influence on conversations about mental health and well-being.
Rather than simply discussing RM's hobbies, the course uses them to examine a wider range of topics, including sleep, anxiety, creative challenges, self-awareness, self-love, exercise, nutrition, therapy, and other approaches to mental health.
Stanford explains that the seminar is fundamentally focused on practices that support mental health and well-being.
However, students are encouraged to go beyond familiar wellness advice.
The course description emphasizes that simply praising common suggestions such as "Get enough sleep!" is not enough.
Instead, students will examine research and data to understand whether different well-being practices actually work and who benefits from them.
Learning materials include academic studies, fiction, artwork, and YouTube videos, bringing together scientific research and cultural experiences.
The course also lists several expectations for students, including a desire to thrive at Stanford and in life, "an appetite for data," and "a healthy respect for BTS."
Another notable detail is the final project, which draws inspiration from RM's first solo studio album, Indigo, released in 2022.
The album reflects RM's experiences and thoughts throughout his twenties, making it a meaningful reference for students exploring personal growth and self-understanding.
Following news of the course, international BTS fans shared excited reactions on social media.
One fan joked, "You mean I can think about Namjoon all day and get academic credits for it? Sign me up!"
Another wrote, "I'm going to get a PhD in Namjooning."
Others expressed admiration that RM's lifestyle had become a topic of academic study at one of the world's leading universities.
The course also comes during a period of growing connections between RM and the San Francisco Bay Area.
BTS performed at Stanford Stadium in May as part of their Arirang world tour, an event also mentioned in the university's course description.
RM has also been involved in the exhibition RM x SFMOMA: Between You and Me at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, where his interest in visual art has gained further attention.
With Stanford now exploring the concept of "Namjooning" through academic research, RM's influence is extending beyond music and art into discussions about mental health, personal growth, and everyday well-being.
