BTS has made a surprising decision that is already creating discussion among fans around the world. Despite releasing a chart-topping album this year and being considered a strong Grammy contender, the global K-pop group announced it will not submit its music for consideration at the 69th Grammy Awards.
The announcement was shared simultaneously by all seven members, RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—through their individual Instagram accounts.
BTS explains why it is skipping the Grammys
In a joint statement, the members explained why they decided not to participate in this year's Grammy submission process.
They wrote, "We have decided not to submit for Grammy consideration this year. We hope our music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language. We thank Army and everyone who has always stood by us."
The statement quickly spread across social media, with fans praising the group for standing by its message. Others expressed disappointment because many believed BTS had one of its strongest chances yet to finally win a Grammy.
The group has received Grammy nominations in the past, including in the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and Best Music Video categories, but has never taken home the award. All seven members have also been voting members of the Recording Academy since 2019.
Decision Comes After New Grammy Category
The announcement arrives just weeks after the Recording Academy introduced a new category called Best Asian Pop Music Performance.
According to the Academy, "This category recognizes artistic excellence in Asian pop music performances originating from or widely recognized within Asian markets, including but not limited to K-pop, J-pop and C-pop, with meaningful use of one or more Asian languages. Awards are presented to the performing artist(s)."
While BTS did not directly mention the new category in its statement, many fans and industry observers have linked the timing of the announcement to the Academy's recent decision.
The Recording Academy has not yet publicly commented on BTS' decision.
BTS continues global success
Although the group is stepping away from Grammy consideration this year, BTS remains one of the biggest acts in the world.
Earlier this year, the members reunited after completing South Korea's mandatory military service and released their fifth studio album, Arirang. The album reached the top of Billboard's album and singles charts, becoming one of the year's biggest global releases.
BTS also recently performed during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show in New Jersey. The group shared the stage with Madonna, Shakira, and Justin Bieber, performing its hit song "Dynamite" during the historic halftime show, the first ever held during a FIFA World Cup final.
The band has also completed the European leg of its World Tour Arirang and will return to the United States beginning Aug. 1 with performances at the same New Jersey stadium.
Even without competing at the 2027 Grammy Awards, BTS continues to dominate the global music scene. Their decision has sparked fresh conversations about how international artists are recognized, while reaffirming the group's message that its music should be appreciated beyond language or geography.
