Stanford University offers ‘Namjooning’ course inspired by BTS’ RM

Stanford University is offering a course inspired by BTS leader RM’s approach to creativity and well-being, bringing the K-pop star’s outlook into the classroom.

Named “Namjooning, and other well-being inspiration from BTS,” the course explores topics such as art, literature, creative block, self-love and self-awareness.

The course comes from the term “Namjooning,” which is used among BTS fans to refer to taking time to slow down, enjoy nature and art, read and reflect.

The three-unit seminar is open to first-year students. It is taught by James R. Jacobs, an associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences who also serves as Stanford’s associate vice provost for health and well-being.

The course goes beyond familiar advice such as getting enough sleep, using quantitative methods to examine how much sleep people need, whether all sleep is equally restorative and how naps fit in. It also explores ways to improve sleep and questions that remain debated in science.

Students will read fiction and scientific papers, analyze art and watch videos, including material exploring RM’s creative journey. Assignments include written work, presentations and a final project inspired by his 2022 solo album “Indigo.”