- विज्ञापन -
Mumbai: BTS’s RM, currently fulfilling his mandatory military service, has once again sparked intrigue and conversation online after a recent photo of him in uniform surfaced. What caught the attention of many was the badge RM wore, which featured a swastika-like symbol. Due to its resemblance to the infamous Nazi swastika, some online users were quick to jump to conclusions. However, RM’s dedicated fanbase swiftly intervened to clarify the true meaning behind the emblem.
The badge RM wore is specifically designed for military officers who perform religious duties within the military, such as chaplains. The symbol in question is not the tilted swastika associated with Nazi ideology, but rather a straight-standing version of the swastika, which holds profound significance in Buddhism.
For many in the Buddhist community, the swastika is a sacred symbol, used to represent the feet or footprints of the Buddha. This emblem predates its tragic appropriation by the Nazis and is regarded as a symbol of auspiciousness, prosperity, and good fortune. As explained by fans, the swastika in this context has a completely different meaning and is often associated with harmony, dharma, and the Buddha’s teachings.
For… reasons, I thought I'd share two photos I took at the Samgwangsa Temple in Busan. It really is beautiful! We were there around Buddha's birthday, so the grounds were decorated with 1000s of lanterns with Buddhist symbols.
Knowledge saves you from embarrassment. You know? pic.twitter.com/tR60AHzIqU
— Cypher⁷ / Shesawseesaw (@cypherluscious) January 1, 2025
In Korean, this symbol (卍) has cultural and religious significance, particularly in Buddhism, where it represents auspiciousness, eternity, and the Buddha's teachings. It is not associated with the Nazi symbol, which is rotated and has a completely different meaning. pic.twitter.com/JTZ2mpBQ0u
— cié დ (@Iivserene) January 1, 2025
군종병은 종교별로 필요한 예배, 미사, 법회 등 종교행사나 종교시설 관리, 종파별 행정 등의 업무를 수행하고 군종부사관이 없는 부대의 경우 군종참모부의 행정, 재정 업무 등을 담당할 수도 있다. pic.twitter.com/xCjJtfnEms
— 내다정한파도 (@borabtsbora) September 17, 2024
A Symbol of Good Fortune and Eternity
In Korean culture, as well as in other Buddhist traditions, the swastika (卍) is a powerful symbol of positive energy. It signifies universal harmony, abundance, longevity, and the eternal nature of the Buddha’s teachings. Unlike the Nazi symbol, which is rotated and associated with hate and violence, this Buddhist emblem carries only positive connotations.
Fans quickly took to social media to point out that the design RM wore reflects his role and connection to Buddhism, further distancing it from the hateful associations some mistakenly attributed to it. In one tweet, a fan shared their experience visiting the Samgwangsa Temple in Busan, showcasing the widespread use of the symbol in Buddhist temples, particularly around Buddha’s birthday when the grounds are often adorned with lanterns featuring similar symbols.
Cultural and Historical Significance
As noted by sources like Britannica, the swastika has been a revered symbol in various cultures, particularly in Buddhism, where it often appears in religious texts and artwork. In the context of Korean Buddhist practices, the symbol is a reminder of the Buddha’s teachings and is typically used to mark the beginning or end of sacred inscriptions.
For RM, the badge is more than just an insignia; it is an indication of his involvement in the spiritual life of his military unit. The emblem highlights his role as a figure of spiritual guidance, showing his alignment with Buddhist values, which is far removed from the hate-fueled ideology some mistakenly, linked it to.
RM, who began his military service on 11th December 2023, alongside fellow BTS member V, is expected to complete his enlistment on 10th June 2025.
