BTS have said they will not submit music for consideration at the 69th Grammy Awards, arguing that music should be appreciated without being divided by region or language. The decision is presented as a measured response to a wider pattern in which major Western award shows have created K-pop-specific categories before recognising the group in established, high-profile awards.

The article points to the 2019 MTV Video Music Awards, when BTS were first honoured in a new best K-pop category despite setting major YouTube viewing records. “Boy With Luv”, featuring Halsey, drew 74.6 million views in 24 hours, while “IDOL” had previously reached 45.9 million; BTS were only nominated in a main VMA category in 2020, when “ON” competed for best pop. HYBE said the Grammys decision is not a company-wide boycott and that neither BTS nor the label has asked others to follow.