After BTS declined Grammy entry, the Recording Academy hinted it may reconsider the new Asian pop category amid criticism.
August/15/2026 16:20Related Groups & Members
While BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan) declared that they would forgo submitting entries for the Grammy Awards, the Recording Academy, which hosts the awards, reportedly suggested a reconsideration of the newly established “Best Asian Pop Music Performance” category, drawing attention. According to Billboard, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. said in a statement on the 14th (local time), “It has become clear that some artists feel they cannot speak for the music they created in the Asian pop category,” and added, “As someone from the music industry, I take this very seriously.” He continued, “The Recording Academy will continue to make efforts to ensure that musicians feel truly respected in line with the changing music environment.” Billboard interpreted this as meaning that the Grammys may reorganize the Asian pop category starting with next year’s awards ceremony. In June of this year, the Recording Academy newly established the “Best Asian Pop Music Performance” category. After that, criticism arose from some that K-pop and other Asian music had been excluded as a separate category and pushed out of the mainstream market. Then, all BTS members individually declared on their respective social media accounts that they would forgo submitting entries for the Grammys. It was regarded as an effective boycott and drew major attention. After BTS’s declaration, CEO Harvey Mason Jr. said he respected their decision, but explained, “The Asian pop category was newly created to celebrate the depth and diversity of pop music produced in Asia, as well as its remarkable growth. The purpose of this new category is to give important artists a dedicated spotlight. More categories mean that more artists’ works will be recognized. This is not to separate artists, but to expand what can be recognized by the 15,000 Grammy voting members.” He further said, “Just because music is entered into a specific genre category such as Asian pop, jazz, or country does not mean it is excluded from entry into, or consideration for, the major awards (General Field), including Record of the Year, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year.” He emphasized, “These major categories apply to all eligible recordings regardless of genre. Evaluation in genre categories and evaluation in the major categories are not mutually exclusive, and artists can clearly aim for both fields.” ・BTS declares it will forgo entry into the Grammys... an effective boycott? ・In response to BTS’s boycott declaration... the CEO of the Grammys explains, “We respect their decision... we did not exclude Asia” ・Did BTS performance footage get removed from the Grammys official website? Suspicion arises
Related Articles
This article introduces two Korean snacks found on a trip: BTS collaboration Oreos and I'MINT Americano xylitol coffee candy. The Oreos have special BTS packaging and cookie designs but taste like the familiar classic Oreo. The coffee candy comes in a stylish tin, blends coffee and mint flavors, uses xylitol, and is sugar-free. Both are recommended as fun souvenirs, and they can also be bought in Japan.
Dwango will exclusively livestream the 2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS from Busan, South Korea, on Niconico on September 19, 2026. The red carpet is free, while the awards ceremony and live performances require a net ticket. Buyers also get access to past TMA shows from 2019 to 2025.
This travel report follows a 1-night, 2-day trip through Cheongju and Daejeon, starting at Cheongju International Airport. It highlights quick immigration, local food, quiet shopping streets, scenic cafes, Daejeon’s famous Sungsimdang bakery, and an easy return.
Kim E-ran’s latest novel, One of Them Is a Lie, is a bestselling Korean coming-of-age story about three high school students whose self-introductions, secrets, and family tragedies intertwine. It explores truth, lies, trauma, and the meaning of family beyond blood ties.
BTS’s world tour will be live-viewed in Japanese cinemas for the Buenos Aires and São Paulo shows. The screenings are delayed viewings, tickets cost 6,900 yen, and fanclub/mobile presales begin August 27. More details on attendee gifts will be announced later.
A woman in her 30s was sent to prosecutors without detention for allegedly using macros and accounts under family and acquaintances’ names to illegally buy about 2,600 idol concert tickets from April 2023 to March this year and resell them at a markup. She also allegedly reserved nine BTS Gwanghwamun concert tickets in February, but police caught her before resale. Police sought to preserve about 442 million won in criminal proceeds, and Korea will begin stronger penalties for illegal ticket resale on the 28th.
BTS’s Jimin gave a special moment to Olivia, a girl with a serious illness, by meeting her at a concert, giving her a keychain, patting her head, and kissing her. Moved by his kindness, fans donated more than 100 million won to a foundation supporting children with cancer.
Before BTS’s Chicago concerts, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker declared the performance dates BTS Day in Illinois, praising the group’s mental health advocacy, self-love message, charity work, and civic impact. The state expects major cultural and economic benefits from the shows.
The 2026 MTV VMA nominations were announced, drawing attention to BTS’s “SWIM,” which was nominated for Song of the Year and Best K-Pop. BLACKPINK, CORTIS, LE SSERAFIM, KATSEYE, and Jisoo and ZAYN also received multiple nominations. The awards will be held on September 27.
BTS member Jin recently shared photos on his SNS, showcasing his visit to a theme park in a casual outfit. Despite the crowd, he enjoyed his vacation without concern for onlookers. Currently, BTS is on their world tour 'ARIRANG', and their 5th full album ranks 59th on the UK Official Albums Chart, maintaining a 21-week presence.
