The leader of South Korean boyband BTS says diversity without borders was the source of creativity behind the group's worldwide success, as Asia-Pacific leaders gathered in his home country for a trade forum overshadowed by protectionist worries.

"I am just an artist. I am not a business leader, so today, I want to speak to you as a creator and an artist," said 31-year-old rapper RM as he addressed a business event held on the sidelines of the annual summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation grouping.

"When cultural barriers come down and different voices harmonise together, there's an explosion of creative energy," he said.

"This is why K-Pop is loved everywhere," he said, adding the group's ARMY global fan club spanning millions of loyal followers is "crossing borders and breaki

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