BTS Skips 2027 Grammy Submission Despite Awards Buzz

For years, BTS fans have watched awards season with crossed fingers, hoping the global superstars would finally hear their name called as Grammy winners. This time, though, the conversation has taken an unexpected turn. Instead of chasing another nomination, the group has decided to step away from the process altogether.

The announcement quickly spread across social media, surprising fans and sparking conversations around the world. Rather than focusing on trophies, BTS made it clear they want the spotlight to stay on the music itself.

On Wednesday, the group announced it will not submit its music for consideration at the 69th Grammy Awards, scheduled for Feb. 7, 2027.

All seven members, RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, shared the same statement on their individual Instagram accounts.

“We have decided not to submit for Grammy consideration this year. We hope our music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language. We thank Army and everyone who has always stood by us.”

The timing of BTS' announcement has caught plenty of attention.

Just over a month ago, the Recording Academy revealed a brand new Grammy category, Best Asian Pop Music Performance. According to the Academy, "This category recognizes artistic excellence in Asian pop music performances originating from or widely recognized within Asian markets, including but not limited to K-pop, J-pop and C-pop, with meaningful use of one or more Asian languages. Awards are presented to the performing artist(s)."

Many fans expected the new category to create another opportunity for BTS after years of recognition in other Grammy races.

The group has earned Grammy nominations before, including Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and Best Music Video, but has never taken home a trophy. Since 2019, all seven members have also served as voting members of the Recording Academy, giving them a unique perspective on the awards process.

The decision also comes during one of the busiest and most successful periods of BTS' career.

Earlier this year, the group reunited after completing mandatory military service and released its fifth studio album, Arirang, in March. The album quickly became a worldwide success, reaching the top of Billboard's main albums and singles charts while drawing massive attention from fans across the globe.

That momentum has continued on the road with the group's "World Tour Arirang." BTS recently wrapped up the European leg of the tour in Paris before heading to one of the year's biggest entertainment events.

On July 19, BTS performed during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Sharing the stage with Madonna, Shakira, and Justin Bieber, the group delivered an eleven minute performance that included their hit 2020 single "Dynamite."

The halftime show also made history. It marked the first halftime performance ever held during a FIFA World Cup final in the tournament's 96-year history. Dressed in custom red tour outfits featuring each member's name alongside the number seven, BTS helped introduce a new tradition on one of the world's biggest stages.

Their schedule is far from slowing down. The group returns to the United States beginning Aug. 1, kicking off the next leg of the "World Tour Arirang" back at MetLife Stadium.

While many artists view Grammy recognition as a career milestone, BTS is choosing a different path this year.

Their message suggests they would rather have listeners focus on the music itself instead of how it fits into categories based on language or geography. Whether or not that decision changes future conversations about the Grammys, it has already become one of the music world's biggest headlines.

For Army, the focus now shifts back to what comes next. With a chart-topping album, a record-setting world tour, and stadium shows still ahead, BTS has plenty of opportunities to keep making history, even without entering the Grammy race this time.