The seven-member group made the announcement on Wednesday through identical statements posted on the individual Instagram accounts of RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook.
In the statement, the group explained its decision, saying, “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 announcement comes just over a month after the Recording Academy introduced the Best Asian Pop Music Performance category, which will debut at the 69th Grammy Awards scheduled for February 7, 2027.
According to the Recording 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).”
The creation of the category had sparked widespread speculation that BTS could finally secure its first Grammy victory after years of nominations in categories such as Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and Best Music Video. Although the group has received multiple Grammy nominations over the years, it has yet to win.
All seven members have also served as voting members of the Recording Academy since 2019.
Expectations surrounding the group's Grammy prospects had grown even stronger following the release of its fifth studio album, "Arirang," in March. The album, released after the members completed their mandatory military service, topped Billboard's major album and singles charts and received a strong global reception.
BTS has also maintained an active performance schedule since reuniting. The group recently concluded the European leg of its "World Tour Arirang" with performances in Paris before appearing at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
During the historic performance—the first halftime show ever staged at a FIFA World Cup final in the tournament's 96-year history—BTS performed its hit 2020 single "Dynamite" as part of an 11-minute showcase shared with Madonna, Shakira and Justin Bieber.
The group appeared in custom red outfits designed for the tour, each featuring a member's name alongside the number seven, symbolizing the band's unity.
Following the World Cup appearance, BTS is set to resume the North American leg of its "World Tour Arirang" on August 1 with another performance at MetLife Stadium, as fans continue to celebrate the group's return to full-scale activities after military service.
While the decision not to seek Grammy consideration may surprise many fans, BTS' statement signals its desire for its music to be appreciated on its own artistic merit rather than through distinctions based on geography or language.