BTS Opts Out of 2027 Grammy Consideration Amid New Asian Pop Category

On July 29, the seven members of BTS posted identical messages on their personal social-media accounts stating that they would not submit any music for the 69th Grammy Awards, which are scheduled for February 7, 2027. The group said they want music to be heard and loved without being divided by region or language and thanked their fanbase, ARMY, for continued support.

BTS rejects new Grammy categories, won't submit for awards this year

In June, the Recording Academy announced five new Grammy categories, including “Best Asian Pop Music Performance.” The category is defined as recognizing artistic excellence in Asian pop performances that originate from or are widely recognized in Asian markets and that make meaningful use of one or more Asian languages. The entry window for the 69th Grammys opened on July 7 and runs through late August. BTS’s decision follows the introduction of this category, which has generated mixed reactions within K-pop communities.

Hollywood ReporterBTS rejects new Grammy categories, won't submit for awards this year BTS Announces Decision To Forgo Grammy Submission

The group returned to full activity last year after completing mandatory military service, releasing the album Arirang in March. The album entered the Billboard 200 at No. 1, and its lead single “Swim” topped the Billboard Hot 100. These achievements positioned BTS as a leading contender for the new Asian pop category and for other Grammy nominations in prior years.

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Commentators note that the new Asian-focused category has been criticized for potentially isolating Asian music from the Grammy’s general fields such as Album of the Year and Record of the Year. Some observers view BTS’s boycott as a pointed rebuke of the Academy’s approach to categorizing music by region or language. The Recording Academy has not issued a comment on BTS’s decision.

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