Overexpression of LINC00638 activated the Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway, markedly decreased the expressions of IL‐6, IL‐17, IL‐23, ROS, as well as malondialdehyde, increased the total antioxidant capacity, and attenuated the proliferation and migration of RA‐FLS, while silencing of LINC00638 reversed these manifestations. The gene discussed is HMOX1; the disease is rheumatoid arthritis.