K-Pop Powerhouses Unite: Stray Kids and BTS Boycott 2027 Grammys!

K-pop sensation Stray Kids has announced their decision not to submit any material for consideration at the 2027 Grammy Awards, following in the footsteps of fellow boy band BTS. JYP Entertainment, Stray Kids' label, confirmed the group's choice to various outlets, though without detailing the specific reasons. However, it is widely believed that this decision is a response to the Recording Academy's recent introduction of a new 'best Asian pop music performance' category.

This move echoes BTS's protest in July, when the members declared they would not participate in the Grammys. Their boycott was explicitly stated as a protest against the awards 'being divided by region or language,' despite their album ARIRANG having topped the Billboard 200 for three weeks. The addition of the 'best Asian pop music performance' category has been a subject of intense discussion and controversy within the music industry for months.

Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. addressed the concerns surrounding the new category following BTS's announcement. He expressed sadness over BTS's decision but respected their autonomy as music creators. Mason Jr. clarified that submitting in localized genre-based categories does not preclude artists from being considered in the general categories. He emphasized that the Asian pop category was created to celebrate the 'depth, diversity and extraordinary growth of pop artistry coming out of Asia,' aiming to 'shine a dedicated spotlight on these important artists' and expand recognition, not to divide.

Billboard reported that the Academy continued its discussions regarding the category amidst the ongoing controversy. In early September, a virtual call was held involving over 80 artists, executives, and stakeholders from the Asian music community, alongside trustees and governors from the Recording Academy. This session aimed to review the efficacy of the new award.

Despite some opposition, the Academy confirmed its intention to proceed with the 'best Asian pop music performance' recognition on October 1. Mason Jr. stated that the Academy had conducted listening sessions and engaged in dialogue with leaders of the Asian music community, receiving 'candid feedback' from those who opposed the category, as well as those who were enthusiastic supporters. He also noted that clearing up 'misperceptions' was valuable. While acknowledging that this conclusion would not satisfy everyone, Mason Jr. expressed confidence that it was 'the right conclusion for the music community overall.'

Despite their non-participation in the Grammys, Stray Kids have achieved remarkable success recently. In the past year alone, the group has secured two No. 1 spots on the Billboard 200 with their November EP DO IT and August's THIS & THAT. The title track from the latter also reached No. 38 on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing their significant global impact.