Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr. said he was saddened but respectful of BTS’s decision not to submit music for the 2027 Grammy Awards. The move removes the group’s comeback album, ARIRANG, from consideration and has heightened debate over the Grammys’ new Best Asian Pop Music Performance category, which BTS appeared to criticise indirectly by arguing that music should not be divided by region or language.

Mason said the category, one of five introduced for the 69th Grammys, is intended to recognise the growth and diversity of Asian pop rather than separate artists; entries may still compete in major general categories. All seven BTS members announced the decision on 29 July, while HYBE said it was the group’s own choice rather than a company boycott; BTS have received five nominations across three ceremonies but have never won.