Grammys 2027: What Will the New Asian Pop Category Look Like Without BTS and Stray Kids?

Grammys 2027 will introduce its first Best Asian Pop Music Performance category without K-pop giants BTS and Stray Kids

The Grammys 2027 will introduce the first-ever Best Asian Pop Music Performance category, but two of the biggest names in K-pop, BTS and Stray Kids, will not be part of the competition. Their decision to sit out the submissions process has sparked debate about the new category and what their absence could mean for its debut. BTS announced in July that the group would not submit music for consideration at the 2027 Grammy Awards. The group objected to the newly created Asian pop category, expressing the view that music should be appreciated without being divided according to region or language. Stray Kids have also decided not to participate in this year’s submissions process. JYP Entertainment confirmed that the group did not submit any music before the August 21 deadline. However, the agency did not provide a specific reason for the decision or confirm whether it was connected to the new Asian pop category.

Despite the absence of both groups, the Recording Academy has confirmed that the award will go ahead as planned. The organisation said it had received a “robust” number of submissions for the category, indicating that BTS’ decision has not resulted in an industry-wide rejection of the new award. The introduction of the Best Asian Pop Music Performance category was initially announced in June. The award is designed to recognise pop music originating from or widely recognised within Asian markets. Eligible recordings must include meaningful use of at least one Asian language. However, the category quickly attracted criticism. Some questioned whether defining Asian pop through geography and language could unintentionally separate Asian artists from the wider global pop industry rather than give them greater recognition.

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Following BTS’ decision, the Recording Academy reportedly held discussions with representatives from different Asian music industries. Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. later confirmed that the category would remain part of the 2027 Grammy Awards. He acknowledged the opposition but said support from music creators was considerably stronger. The absence of BTS and Stray Kids is nevertheless expected to remain an important part of the conversation surrounding the inaugural award. Both acts are among the most internationally recognised K-pop groups and could have been major contenders. Music critic Lim Hee-yun said their absence could affect how the first Asian pop Grammy is perceived. However, she noted that the category could still establish credibility through the artists who participate. According to her, the decision by a major Asian act to reject the category because of its premise will inevitably become part of the award’s wider context.

The decisions by BTS and Stray Kids also raise questions about whether other K-pop artists will follow their example. Industry observers believe a collective withdrawal is unlikely, as the Grammys continue to hold significant prestige within the global music industry. An industry official noted that artists and agencies are aware of the concerns raised by BTS, Stray Kids and their supporters. At the same time, individual artists may still see a Grammy nomination or win as an important career milestone. Ateez leader Hongjoong recently highlighted the debate during an interview with Variety. He said that winning a Grammy remains a dream for himself and Ateez, while also expressing agreement with BTS’ decision. Hongjoong added that he believes music “has no boundary.”

The Grammy Awards’ first Best Asian Pop Music Performance category will therefore begin under considerable attention. While BTS and Stray Kids will be missing, the strong number of submissions suggests that other artists are prepared to compete. The final nominees for the 2027 Grammy Awards are scheduled to be announced on November 16. The nominees will reveal which artists and recordings will define the first edition of this new category and whether it can establish a lasting place within the Grammys.