Global K-pop phenomenon BTS have announced that they will not submit their music for consideration at the 2027 Grammy Awards, issuing a joint statement across their individual Instagram accounts.
Despite widespread expectations that their massive comeback album Arirang and US number-one single Swim would contend for major categories like Album and Song of the Year, all seven members RM, Jimin, V, Suga, Jungkook, Jin, and J-Hope confirmed they are opting out of the process entirely.
“We have decided not to enter the Grammys this year. I hope that music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language.” BTS said.
BTS: Pushback over new Asian Pop category
The decision comes shortly after the Recording Academy introduced a new category for Best Asian Pop Music Performance, requiring songs to feature “meaningful use” of an Asian language. With over 80% of Arirang sung in English, the record would have been excluded from the new category, prompting online backlash from fans who argued the award pigeonholes Asian artists rather than celebrating them in main categories.
Addressing their fanbase directly in the joint message, the band concluded with a simple note of gratitude: “Thank you to Army and everyone who is always with us.” The Recording Academy has not yet publicly commented on the announcement.
