BTS have announced they will not be submitting their new album ‘Arirang’ at the 2027 Grammy Awards.
It comes after the Recording Academy recently confirmed a new Best Asian Pop Music Performance category, at next year’s event which will recognise “artistic excellence” in Asian pop music originating from Asian markets, and entries must have meaningful use of one or more Asian language.
Each member of BTS has now shared an identical statement on their individual Instagram Stories confirming their refusal to submit their record for inclusion.
“We have decided not to submit our work to this year’s Grammy Awards.” they stated. “We hope music can be heard and loved for itself, beyond regions or languages. We are grateful to our ‘ARMY’ and everyone who has always supported us.”
All seven BTS members stand united in their decision not to submit to the Grammys this year. ✊
"We’ve decided not to submit our work for this year’s Grammy Awards. We hope music will be recognized and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language. Thank… pic.twitter.com/x5WCRtZsav
— BTS Daily⁷ (@btsdaily77) July 29, 2026
The Academy is yet to comment publicly on the K-pop band’s omission.
Songs performed entirely in English are not eligible for the category. BTS’ recent album features multiple songs with predominantly English-language lyrics. ‘Swim’ is particular is sung entirely in English, which would have made it ineligible for the Best Asian Pop Music Performance category.
It is thought that a dedicated category could make it easier for Grammy voters to recognise Asian artists without seriously considering them for awards like Album of the Year.
NME previously argued against the creation of a K-pop category. We wrote: “Pop music is pop music, regardless of geographical location, the racial or ethnic identity of those making it, the language it’s sung in, or any other factor you might choose to segregate people by.”
Next year’s event, will be held on February 7, 2027. Submissions opened on July 7 and will close on August 28.
Reviewing, ‘Arirang’, NME awarded the album four stars and wrote: “After nearly four years, BTS are back doing what they do best – serving as both ambassadors and explorers, fuelled by curiosity and creativity.”
The band recently performed at the Chris Martin-curated World Cup final halftime show alongside, Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira and Burna Boy.
