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Global K-pop sensation BTS has announced that it will not submit its music for consideration at the 2027 Grammy Awards, citing concerns over the Recording Academy’s newly introduced Asian pop category.
The decision comes just a month after the Recording Academy unveiled several new award categories and rule changes for the 2027 ceremony, including the creation of the Best Asian Pop Music Performance category.
In a joint statement shared across their social media platforms, all seven members—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook—confirmed that neither their comeback album, Arirang, nor any related releases would be entered for Grammy consideration.
“We have decided not to enter the Grammys this year. I hope that music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language,” the translated statement read.
The Recording Academy said the new category was introduced to recognise music originating from Asian countries and performed in Asian languages. However, the announcement has drawn mixed reactions from fans and industry stakeholders, with critics arguing that it risks separating Asian artistes from mainstream award categories rather than promoting greater inclusion.
Many observers contend that creating a separate category for Asian pop music could limit opportunities for non-Western artistes to compete in prestigious general field categories such as Album of the Year, Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
By referencing “region” and “language” in their statement, BTS appeared to signal its opposition to what it views as the categorisation of music based on geographical or linguistic identity instead of artistic merit.
The group’s decision has sparked widespread discussion within the global music industry, with supporters describing the move as a stand for equal recognition of artistes regardless of language or cultural background.
BTS remains one of the world’s most successful music acts, having broken numerous international records and topped charts across multiple countries. Their decision to withdraw from Grammy consideration is expected to intensify conversations about diversity, inclusion and the recognition of global music at major international awards ceremonies.
