BTS Protests Grammys by Withholding Submissions

The globally popular K-pop group BTS has announced it will not submit any music for consideration at the upcoming Grammy Awards. The seven-member band stated on social media that they have decided against participating this year, expressing a hope that music can be appreciated for its own merit, regardless of origin or language.

This protest stems from the Recording Academy's decision to introduce five new categories, including one for "Best Asian Pop Music Performance." While the academy claims this aims to recognize artists from Asian markets like South Korea, Japan, and China, critics argue it risks pigeonholing Asian pop music instead of integrating it with global hits. Similar criticisms have been leveled against a Grammy category for Latin American music.

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We have decided not to submit for the Grammys this year.

The application period for the awards is open until August 21, with the ceremony scheduled for February 7, 2027. BTS recently celebrated their comeback in Germany after members completed their mandatory military service. The band launched their comeback with the album "Arirang" in late March.

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We hope that music can be heard and loved regardless of region or language – simply as music itself.