Stray Kids join BTS in not entering the Grammys after new Asian Pop category confirmed

Stray Kids did not submit any music for the 2027 Grammy Awards (the 69th ceremony), their agency JYP Entertainment confirmed on Friday 2 October, making them the second major K-pop act to sit out after BTS. 1 2 Variety reported that JYP offered no explanation and would not confirm whether the new Asian Pop category played a part, and that the submission deadline was 21 August; the BBC describes the move as a boycott and links it to the category. 2 1 Under Grammy rules, music that is not formally submitted cannot appear on nomination screening ballots or compete for a win. 2

The Recording Academy announced the Asian Pop category in June, to recognise "artistic excellence in Asian pop music performances originating from or widely recognized within Asian markets"; it followed the song "Golden", from KPop Demon Hunters, becoming the first K-pop song to win a Grammy in February. 1 The category drew a mixed reception: critics fear it will segregate Asian artists from the main categories, and a stipulation that nominated songs make "meaningful use" of an Asian language would rule out BTS and Blackpink, whose latest releases are mainly in English, according to the BBC. 1 In July, BTS said they would not submit music for Grammy consideration, hoping it "can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language". They have been nominated five times without winning, per Variety. 2

Recording Academy chief Harvey Mason Jr. confirmed the category will go ahead in 2027 after weeks of listening sessions with Asian music leaders. He said the Academy heard opposition but that enthusiasm from music creators was the loudest feedback, and acknowledged the decision "will not satisfy everyone". 1 2 Variety adds that the Academy reported a "robust" number of submissions for the category's first year. 2 All eight Stray Kids members were invited this year to become Recording Academy voters, as BTS are also voting members, so both groups can help choose nominees and winners while keeping their own music out. 1 2

Asked about the awards at an August press conference for their album This & That, Stray Kids members sidestepped direct questions; Hyunjin said they had never set award results or records as a goal and that fans' satisfaction was the priority. 1 2 Ateez leader Kim Hong-joon told Variety this week he agreed "a little" with BTS's stance, and the BBC says other acts may follow. 1 The outlets give different dates for the nominations announcement: the BBC says 10 December, while Variety says 16 November, with the ceremony on 7 February 2027. 1 2