Full Breakdown
BTS Declines Grammy Submission Amid New Asian Pop Category
7/30/2026, 4:07:23 AM
Core Event
The seven members of BTS—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook—announced on Wednesday that they will not submit music for consideration in the 2027 Grammy Awards. The decision arrives shortly after the Recording Academy introduced a Best Asian Pop Music Performance category.
Background & Context
The Recording Academy unveiled the Best Asian Pop Music Performance category a little over a month ago. The Academy noted that awards in this genre are presented to the performing artist(s) and that the new field adds to, rather than replaces, existing categories. Grammy voting involves roughly 15,000 members.
Official Statements & Responses
Harvey Mason Jr., chief executive of the Grammys, responded to the BTS announcement, stating: “I am saddened to hear that BTS has chosen not to participate in the Grammy Awards process this year, but as a music creator, I understand and respect their decision,” — Harvey Mason, grammy CEO He added that submitting in a genre-specific category does not preclude artists from also being considered for General Field awards such as Record of the Year, Album of the Year and Song of the Year. BTS’s Instagram post reiterated their desire for music to be evaluated without regional or linguistic division.
Impact and Industry Reaction
The move highlights ongoing dialogue about how genre-based categories intersect with broader award considerations. BTS’s withdrawal underscores concerns that regional categories could be perceived as segregating artists. The situation may influence how future nominees view genre classifications and their eligibility for General Field honors.
Data & Statistics
- Grammy voting body: ~15,000 members.
- BTS members issuing the statement: seven.
- New category: Best Asian Pop Music Performance, covering K-pop, J-pop, C-pop and other Asian-language pop.
- BTS has previously received Grammy nominations in Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and Best Music Video but has not won.
