From G-Dragon to Kim Jaejoong and RM, K-Pop’s Biggest Art Collectors Are Redefining ‘Rich Taste’

Collecting art is no longer just a hobby for Korea’s biggest stars. From K-pop icons to veteran entertainers, more celebrities are embracing “art-tech,” a trend that combines art appreciation with long-term investment value.

Rather than putting their money into real estate or stocks, these stars are building personal collections that reflect taste, vision, and cultural influence, while quietly growing in value over time.

When an Eye for Art Pays Off

One well-known example comes from entertainer Kim Sook, who once purchased a sculpture by a relatively unknown Korean artist for under one million won simply because it resonated with her emotionally. At the time, it felt like a meaningful but modest purchase.

Years later, as the artist’s reputation grew, the value of that work rose dramatically. The piece is now considered nearly priceless, with even the original sketch associated with it reportedly valued at several million won. Kim Sook has often said the artwork brought her peace long before it brought financial value.

G-Dragon’s Museum-Level Collection

Among celebrities, G-Dragon is widely recognized as one of Korea’s most serious art collectors. International art media have previously highlighted him as a collector to watch, and glimpses of his home reveal a collection that rivals gallery exhibitions.

His holdings reportedly include works by globally renowned contemporary artists, some of which have reached tens of billions of won in auction value. One particular pop-art piece he owns is estimated to be worth tens of billions of won today, reflecting how art chosen with insight can become a major asset.

Kim Jaejoong’s Art-Filled Home

Singer Kim Jaejoong has also drawn attention for seamlessly blending art into his everyday life. When he once revealed his spacious penthouse, fans were surprised to see it filled with notable works by internationally acclaimed artists.

Among them was a famous polka-dot pumpkin sculpture by a Japanese contemporary artist, purchased years ago at a fraction of its current value. His home furnishings themselves are also considered collectible design pieces, with some items valued in the tens of millions of won.

Art as a Safety Net

Actor and art collector Lee Kwang-ki represents another side of art-tech. Known for his deep commitment to collecting, he has openly shared that selling select artworks helped him cover major life expenses, including family milestones.

His story highlights how art, when collected with patience and understanding, can function as a financial safety net rather than a speculative gamble.

RM and the Power of Cultural Influence

BTS leader RM stands out not only as a collector but as a cultural tastemaker. His museum visits often spark increased public interest in exhibitions, a phenomenon fans call the “RM tour.”

Beyond collecting, RM actively supports cultural preservation. His donations have funded the restoration of historic Korean garments and artworks, proving that art investment can extend beyond personal gain into meaningful social impact.

His influence has also helped elevate the global value of works by Korean artists, drawing international attention to Korea’s modern art scene.

More Than Just Money

What unites these stories is a shared philosophy. For these stars, art-tech is not about quick profit. It begins with genuine appreciation, emotional connection, and respect for artistic value.

As the Korean art market continues to grow internationally, celebrities are playing an unexpected but powerful role, shaping taste, supporting artists, and proving that smart investing does not have to be separated from passion.

In today’s K-culture landscape, art is no longer confined to galleries. It lives in homes, influences fans, and quietly becomes part of a larger cultural legacy.