BTS pulls out of Grammys after Asian pop category introduction
K-pop group BTS has decided not to submit music for the Grammy Awards following the introduction of a new 'Best Asian Pop Music Performance' category. The group expressed a desire for music to be judged on its own merits rather than by regional or linguistic labels.
Why it matters
This reflects ongoing debates in the music industry regarding the categorization of global artists and the potential for 'ghettoization' in award shows.
Global K-pop sensation BTS said on Wednesday (July 29, 2026) they will not submit their music for next year's Grammy Awards, following the Recording Academy's introduction of new categories that include the Best Asian Pop Music Performance.
The South Korean megastars had been widely tipped to be 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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"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," they said.
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