BTS Skips Grammy Submissions, Citing New Asian Pop Category Concerns

K-pop group BTS announced they will not submit music for consideration at the 69th Annual Grammy Awards in February 2027, expressing disagreement with the Recording Academy’s newly introduced category for best Asian pop music performance.

First-Ever Grammy Opt-Out

This marks the first time the South Korean group has chosen not to participate in the awards process. Each member shared the decision individually on Instagram, stating their hope that music could be appreciated on its own merits rather than divided by region or language.

Grammys Defend New Category’s Purpose

The Recording Academy introduced the category in June, covering pop music from South Korea, Japan, China and other Asian markets, including genres like K-pop, J-pop and C-pop. Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. said he respected BTS’s decision but wanted to clarify the category’s intent, explaining that it was created to expand recognition for Asian artists rather than separate them from broader consideration. He emphasized that submitting to the category does not prevent artists from also competing in major general categories like record or album of the year.

Backdrop of Continued Success

The announcement follows a strong period for BTS, whose comeback album “ARIRANG,” released after members completed mandatory military service, topped the Billboard 200 for two consecutive weeks, a first for a K-pop act. The group also recently won artist of the year at the American Music Awards and has seen rapid ticket sell-outs for their ongoing world tour.