Recording Academy reviews new Asian Pop category after BTS boycott

The Recording Academy is reviewing its newly introduced Best Asian Pop Music Performance category following significant backlash regarding inclusivity. Critics and fans argued that the separate category risked isolating Asian artists into a niche segment rather than integrating them into mainstream Grammy categories.

The controversy intensified after the K-pop group BTS announced they would not submit their music for consideration at the 2027 ceremony. In a statement, the group expressed a desire for music to be appreciated for its own merit rather than being divided by region or language.

Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. confirmed the category is under review after discussions with various stakeholders, including music communities from K-pop, J-pop, C-pop, and Indian music, as well as labels like HYBE. The Academy’s Board of Trustees and Awards & Nominations Committee are currently seeking guidance on the matter and the broader process for introducing new categories.