BTS Decides to Skip 2027 Grammys Due to Category Concerns

BTS, the globally popular K-pop group, announced that they will not submit their music for the 2027 Grammy Awards. The seven members—RM, Jimin, V, Suga, Jungkook, Jin, and J-Hope—shared this decision via a statement on their Instagram accounts. They expressed a desire for music to be appreciated for its own merit, free from divisions based on region or language.

The Recording Academy has not yet responded to requests for comments regarding this decision. BTS was anticipated to be a strong contender for major awards at the 69th Grammy Awards, including album of the year. Their latest album, ‘Arirang,’ ranks among the best-selling records of the year with its lead single ‘Swim’ reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.

New categorization rules might have led to the exclusion of ‘Swim’ from the best Asian pop music performance category. The Recording Academy introduced five new categories, intending to enhance inclusivity. According to the Grammy rulebook, recordings in these categories must prominently feature an Asian language. Although BTS primarily performs in Korean, ‘Swim’ features mainly English lyrics, creating uncertainty about its eligibility.

BTS was formed in 2013 and has drawn comparisons to The Beatles. They were the first K-pop group to receive a Grammy nomination, earning five nominations to date, though they have yet to win. Recently, they performed at the World Cup final’s halftime show in the United States. The band extended gratitude to their fans, known as the Army, for their unwavering support.

Thank you to Army and everyone who is always with us, the group said.