BTS pulls out of 2027 Grammy consideration
The seven-member K-pop group BTS has decided not to submit music for consideration at the 69th Annual Grammy Awards, scheduled for February 2027, a South African outlet reported on August 1, 2026. The withdrawal is the most prominent artist-led objection in the lead-up to next year's ceremony. BTS are reported to have sold 161.7 million equivalent albums, a figure that places them among the best-selling acts tracked by industry tallies.
Grammys chief expresses sadness and respect
The Recording Academy's CEO responded to the news prior to its formal announcement, telling BuzzFeed: "I am saddened to hear that BTS has chosen not to participate in the Grammy Awards process this year, but as a music creator, I understand and respect their decision." The statement, carried on July 31, signalled openness to dialogue but stopped short of committing to any change in the new Asian category or to a formal review.
The contested Asian category
At the centre of the dispute is the Recording Academy's introduction of a new Asian category for the 2027 cycle. The outlet that first reported the boycott framed the new category as the motivating factor for BTS, but did not publish full details of the category's name, eligibility rules, or structure in the material available. The specific criteria for the category therefore remain a gap in the public record carried by the source set.
What stays unresolved
It is unclear from the available reporting whether the Recording Academy will revisit the contested category or whether other major acts will follow BTS's lead. The CEO's statement acknowledged the group's position without confirming any formal engagement. The 69th Grammy ceremony itself, set for February 2027, remains the next verifiable milestone on the calendar.
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