BTS has made an unexpected decision ahead of the 69th Grammy Awards, choosing not to submit its music for consideration despite releasing one of the year’s biggest albums. The announcement comes at a time when many fans expected the group to finally secure its first Grammy victory, especially after the Recording Academy introduced a brand-new category recognising Asian pop music.
Rather than pursuing another awards campaign, the seven-member group said it wants listeners to connect with its music without it being defined by geography or language. The announcement quickly sparked discussion among fans worldwide, with many praising the group’s message while others expressed disappointment that BTS will not compete at next year’s ceremony.
BTS Explains Why It Won’t Enter The Grammys
On Wednesday, RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook each shared the same statement through their individual Instagram accounts, confirming that BTS will not submit any of its recent music for Grammy consideration.
“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 message arrives just weeks after the Recording Academy announced the introduction of Best Asian Pop Music Performance, a new award category that will debut at the 69th Grammy Awards. According to the Academy, the category recognises outstanding performances in Asian pop music, including genres such as K-pop, J-pop and C-pop, where one or more Asian languages play a meaningful role.
The timing of BTS’s announcement has naturally drawn attention because many expected the group to be among the strongest contenders in the new category. However, by choosing not to submit, BTS has made it clear that its decision reflects a broader philosophy about how its music should be received rather than the availability of a new award.
A Strong Year Raised Expectations For BTS
The decision is particularly surprising because BTS has enjoyed one of its biggest years since reuniting after completing mandatory military service. Earlier this year, the group released its fifth studio album, Arirang, which topped Billboard’s major album and singles charts while receiving a strong response from fans around the world.
The group has previously earned multiple Grammy nominations, including in Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and Best Music Video, but has never taken home a trophy. Since 2019, all seven members have also served as voting members of the Recording Academy, making this year’s decision even more notable.
Industry observers had widely expected Arirang to give BTS another opportunity to compete for Grammy recognition. Instead, the group has opted to step away from the submission process altogether, leaving the new Asian pop category without one of its biggest global acts.
The Recording Academy has not publicly commented on BTS’s decision. According to reports, Variety has contacted the organisation for a response.
World Tour Continues After Historic Performances
While awards may not be part of BTS’s immediate plans, the group’s global schedule remains packed. The band is currently travelling on its World Tour Arirang, having recently completed the European leg with performances in Paris before heading back to North America.
Earlier this month, BTS also became part of football history by performing at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Sharing the stage with Madonna, Shakira and Justin Bieber, the group performed its hit single “Dynamite” during an eleven-minute show that marked the first halftime performance in the tournament’s 96-year history.
The members appeared in custom red stage outfits designed for the tour, each featuring the member’s name alongside the number seven, symbolising the complete reunion of the group. BTS is now preparing to resume the North American leg of the tour, beginning August 1 at the same New Jersey venue.
Although the group has chosen to sit out Grammy consideration this year, its influence on the global music industry remains undeniable. From topping international charts to selling out stadiums and performing on some of the world’s biggest stages, BTS continues to expand its reach while making decisions on its own terms. Whether the group returns to Grammy competition in future years remains unknown, but for now, its focus appears to be firmly on the music and the fans who continue to support it.
