The members of the K-pop group BTS have announced they will not enter any songs or albums for consideration at the 69th Grammy Awards. In a coordinated statement posted across their individual social media accounts, the seven artists RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook explained that they prefer their work to be received and appreciated for its own merits by audiences worldwide rather than evaluated through the lens of geography or language.
The decision follows the recent introduction of five new award categories by the Recording Academy. These include Best Asian Pop Music Performance, Best Latin Song, Best R&B Collaboration or Duo/Group Performance, Best Traditional Pop Vocal Performance and Best Traditional Folk Album. The additions are scheduled to take effect at the upcoming ceremony.
In their joint message, the group stated: “We have decided not to submit our work for the Grammys this year. We hope that our music will be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being categorised by region or language. We are grateful to ARMY and everyone who has always been with us.”
The creation of a dedicated Asian Pop category has drawn sharp criticism from fans. Many have argued that such a classification risks isolating successful Asian artists from competition in the awards’ most prestigious general fields, effectively limiting their chances of recognition on the broadest stage.
BTS holds five Grammy nominations in total and was the first Korean pop act ever to receive one. Rosé of Blackpink remains the only other K-pop artist to earn a nomination; she became the first Korean solo performer to do so last year with the track “APT.” Neither has yet taken home a trophy.
The group recently completed the Paris dates of their Arirang world tour and is currently observing a short break.
