Grammy CEO Clarifies Purpose of New Asian Pop Category Following BTS’s Exit from 2027 Awards

“I am saddened to hear that BTS has chosen not to participate in the Grammy Awards process this year,” said Grammy CEO Harvey Mason Jr.

Earlier on Monday, BTS announced they would not submit their highly anticipated comeback album, ARIRANG, for consideration at the 2027 Grammy Awards. Their decision follows the introduction of a new Best Asian Pop Music Performance category, which has sparked widespread discussion across the industry.

To address the situation, Grammy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. took to social media to clarify that the new category was not designed to single out K‑pop artists.

“I am saddened to hear that BTS has chosen not to participate in the Grammy Awards process this year, but as a music creator I understand and respect their decision,” Mason said. “I want to emphasize that the Asian Pop category was created to celebrate the depth, diversity, and extraordinary growth of pop artistry from Asia. Its purpose is to shine a dedicated spotlight on these important artists. More categories mean more artists are recognized. It is never intended to divide, but to expand recognition among our 15,000 Grammy voters.”

Mason added that submitting music in the Asian Pop category does not prevent artists from also being considered for general categories such as Record of the Year, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year.

“As we continue to expand our reach, membership, and awards regardless of geography or language, I want to stress that we will keep listening to the global music community and work to honor and celebrate all artists whose music moves the world,” Mason said.

In their announcement of withdrawal from the 2027 awards ceremony, BTS wrote: “We decided not to participate in the Grammys this year.” The message, shared by each member on their individual Instagram accounts, added: “We hope music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided into region or language.”

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