Grammys Establish 'Asian Pop' Category Amid BTS Boycott

'Asian Pop' Artistic Merit CategoryCEO "The Right Conclusion for the Music Community"The Grammy Awards will introduce a new category, 'Best Asian Pop Music Performance,' next year. / Grammy Awards Official Social Media[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] The Grammy Awards have ultimately decided to establish an 'Asian Pop' category.Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the host Recording Academy, officially announced the establishment of the 'Best Asian Pop Music Performance' category in an official statement on the 1st (local time), saying, "There were disagreements and misunderstandings, but we confirmed the passionate support of creators."He added, "We know this conclusion will not satisfy everyone," but "we are confident it is the right conclusion for the entire music community." He also said, "We look forward to celebrating the nominees for the 'Best Asian Pop Music Performance' category at the 2027 Grammy Awards."Previously, in June, the Grammy Awards announced the establishment of the 'Best Asian Pop Music Performance' category to evaluate the artistic merit of popular music created in Asian markets such as K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop, where Asian languages are significantly used.However, in July, controversy arose when members of the group BTS, who were considered strong contenders for the award, posted on their respective social media accounts expressing their intention to refuse submission, stating, "We hope music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language."Following this, the Recording Academy reportedly began a review of the establishment of the 'Best Asian Pop Music Performance' category. However, this official statement has formalized the establishment of the category.The 69th Grammy Awards, which will include the 'Best Asian Pop Music Performance' category for the first time, will be held in February 2027 at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, USA.[Entertainment Department | BTS]mcy21@tf.co.krssent@tf.co.kr