K-pop sensation BTS has decided not to participate in the upcoming Grammy Awards by not submitting any of their music for consideration. The seven band members, known as RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, made this announcement through a collective statement shared on Instagram, expressing their desire for their music to be appreciated without being limited by geographic or linguistic boundaries. They extended their gratitude to their loyal fan base, ARMY, and all supporters who have stood by them.
This decision follows the introduction of a new Grammy category for best Asian pop music performance in the current Grammy cycle by the Recording Academy. The new category aims to acknowledge outstanding artistic achievements in Asian pop music, including genres like K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop, with an emphasis on songs featuring Asian languages.
BTS’s latest album, “Arirang,” predominantly features English lyrics, which may have influenced their choice not to submit their music for Grammy consideration. Despite receiving five Grammy nominations in the past, including for hits like “Dynamite” and “Butter,” BTS has yet to secure a Grammy win. All seven members are active voting members of the Recording Academy since 2019.
The group’s recent success with their album “Arirang” and its lead single “Swim” reaching the top positions on the Billboard 200 and Hot 100 charts, respectively, marks a significant milestone in their career. BTS joins a growing list of artists, including Frank Ocean and The Weeknd, who have publicly criticized the Grammy Awards or opted out of submitting their music in recent years.
While the Recording Academy has not responded to BTS’s decision, it reflects a trend where artists are questioning the relevance and significance of traditional award ceremonies in today’s music industry landscape. In 2026, “Golden” by KPop Demon Hunters became the first K-pop song to win a Grammy, and Rosé from Blackpink received a nomination for record of the year, showcasing the evolving recognition of Asian music in mainstream awards.
Following their performance at the FIFA World Cup halftime show, BTS is gearing up for the North American leg of their Arirang world tour, with a scheduled stop at Toronto’s Rogers Stadium in August. The group continues to make waves in the global music scene, captivating audiences worldwide with their talent and artistry.