BTS pulls out of Grammys after Asian pop category introduction
Global K-pop group BTS has announced they will not submit music for the Grammy Awards following the introduction of a new 'Asian Pop' category. The group expressed a desire for music to be judged on its own merits rather than being categorized by region or language.
Why it matters
The decision highlights ongoing debates regarding cultural representation and the potential for 'ghettoization' of non-Western artists in major music industry awards.
"We have decided not to enter the Grammys this year," BTS members said in coordinated posts on their individual Instagram accounts. "We hope that music is heard and loved for what it is, rather than being defined by region or language."
BTS accepts the Artiste of the Year award onstage during the 52nd American Music Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 25, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (File photo: Getty Images via AFP)
Global K-pop sensation BTS said Wednesday (Jul 29) they will not submit their music for next year's Grammy Awards, after the Recording Academy introduced a new Asian pop category criticised for restricting the success of regional artists.
The South Korean megastars were widely tipped in the running for several of the Grammys' top honours, including Album of the Year, after their comeback album, Arirang, became one of this year's best-selling hits.
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