BTS have announced that they will not submit their music for consideration at the 69th Grammy Awards. The decision comes despite the massive success of their comeback album Arirang, which has become one of the biggest international releases of the year and was expected to win a Grammy award.

The seven members, RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook, shared the same statement through their individual Instagram accounts. In their message, they explained that they wanted their music to be appreciated without being defined by language or region.


(RM’s Instagram Story)

“We have decided not to enter the Grammys this year. I hope our music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being distinguished by region or language. Thank you to the Army and everyone for always being with me,” the statement read.

BTS did not provide any specific details about their decision, but many believe it reflects their views on the Recording Academy's recently introduced Best Asian Pop Music Performance category.

Announced just over a month ago, the new award aims to recognise excellence in Asian pop music. The announcement received mixed reactions online. While some saw the move as an opportunity, others questioned whether creating a separate category could limit artists' visibility in major Grammy categories such as Album of the Year and Song of the Year.


Among BTS fans, known as Army, concerns had already been raised when the category was introduced. Many argued that globally successful Asian artists should compete with major Western artists rather than being placed in a separate category. Some described the new award as a form of segregation presented as inclusion.


(Picture credit- bts.bighitofficial on Instagram)

BTS have not directly connected their decision to skip Grammy submissions with the introduction of the new category. However, the timing of the announcement has led everyone to believe the two are related.

Army believes BTS' decision is less about awards and more about dignity and supporting the idea that music should be judged on its artistic value rather than its language.