BTS Just Opted Out Of The 2027 Grammys Despite Being Favorites To Win—And Their Decision Is A Statement

BTS is officially sitting out the 2027 Grammy Awards.

On Wednesday, July 29, the group announced through their respective social media accounts that they will not submit any music for consideration at the 69th Grammy Awards—including tracks from their latest album, Arirang.

According to an English translation of the members' caption, "We decided not to submit to the Grammys this year," the members wrote. "We want music to be heard and loved for what it is, rather than categorized by region or language."

The decision comes a month after the Recording Academy introduced five new Grammy categories, including Best Asian Pop Music Performance, ahead of next year's ceremony. The category recognizes performances "originating from or widely recognized in Asian markets" that make "meaningful use of one or more Asian languages."

Before BTS shared their decision, the septet had been widely regarded as one of the strongest contenders—and a clear favorite—to take home the inaugural Best Asian Pop Music Performance trophy, thanks to the commercial success and critical acclaim of Arirang. Instead, the group has opted not to enter the race at all.

While BTS did not directly mention the newly introduced category in their statement, many fans have interpreted the move as a response to it. It's a sentiment that echoes a years-long conversation about how global artists are recognized, with many arguing that music shouldn't have to be separated by language or region.

BTS has made Grammy history several times over the years, earning nominations for "Dynamite," "Butter," "Yet to Come," and "My Universe" with Coldplay. Despite becoming one of the most globally successful acts of the decade, the group has yet to win a Grammy.

The Recording Academy is currently accepting entries for the 69th Grammy Awards, with the submission period running from July 7 to August 21.