K-pop group BTS has announced that it will not submit songs for consideration at the 2027 Grammy Awards, saying that music should not be categorised by language or region after the Recording Academy introduced a new Asian category.

The seven-member group issued a joint statement on Wednesday on their individual social media handles, announcing they decided not to submit an entry for this year’s Grammys.

The group said music should be appreciated rather than categorised.

“We have decided not to submit for this year’s Grammys. We hope that our music can be heard and loved for the music itself, rather than being categorised by region or language. We thank ARMY and everyone who is always with us,” the group said.

The decision comes shortly after the Grammys introduced a new category, Best Asian Pop Music Performance for the 2027 awards. 

The category is designed to increase recognition of pop music from the continent that is performed in one or more Asian languages. 

However, some fans and critics argue that the category excludes Asian artists from mainstream competition.

Harvey Mason Jr., chief executive of the Recording Academy, said he understood and respected the music group’s decision, expressing disappointment that the group will not participate in the awards process.

“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,” Mr Mason said.

He also defended the new category, emphasising that the feat does not stop Asian artistes from competing in other Grammy categories with top artists, including Album of the Year and Song of the Year.

BTS became the first K-pop group to receive Grammy nominations and has earned five nominations, including Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, since 2021, but they are yet to win the award.