BTS fans recently noticed that several of the group’s past Grammy performance videos were no longer available on the Recording Academy’s website, sparking speculation that the removal was linked to the group’s decision to skip Grammy submissions.
However, the Recording Academy has denied any connection between the two events, saying the videos were removed because of routine licensing expirations.
The clarification comes at a time when tensions between the global K-pop community and the Grammys have increased following debates over the awards body’s newly introduced Asian Pop category.
Recording Academy says video removals were routine
A representative for the Recording Academy told Korea JoongAng Daily that the disappearance of BTS performances was not a reaction to the group’s recent announcement.
The Academy said that older BTS performances had been removed from its platforms as part of standard licensing procedures and that similar removals had occurred years earlier.
The statement attempted to address fan concerns that the timing of the removal suggested a connection with BTS stepping away from Grammy submissions.
BTS decision to skip Grammy submissions fuels speculation
The controversy began after BTS members announced that they would not submit their music for the upcoming Grammy Awards.
In a statement shared across their personal Instagram accounts, the members expressed their hope that music would be appreciated beyond regional and language divisions.
The announcement came after fans and industry observers debated the Grammy Awards’ approach toward international artists, particularly following the introduction of a new Asian Pop category.
New Asian Pop category faces criticism
The Recording Academy announced the creation of the Best Asian Pop Music Performance category in June, describing it as a recognition of the growing influence and diversity of Asian music.
However, some critics and K-pop fans questioned whether the new category could unintentionally separate Asian artists from the broader Grammy competition.
Concerns were raised that placing more Asian artists into a dedicated category could reduce their chances of competing in major “General Field” awards, including Album of the Year and Record of the Year.
Grammys defend the new category
Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. defended the decision, saying the category was created to celebrate the expanding influence of Asian pop music rather than limit artists’ opportunities.
He emphasised that artists submitted under the Asian Pop category would remain eligible for major Grammy awards.
According to the Academy, the new category is intended to recognize a rapidly growing global music scene while allowing artists to compete across multiple award categories.
BTS and the Grammys’ changing relationship
BTS has played a major role in expanding K-pop’s global audience and has been nominated for multiple Grammy awards. The group’s performances at the ceremony became landmark moments for many fans who viewed the appearances as recognition of K-pop’s international impact.
While the removal of the videos briefly created speculation online, the Recording Academy’s explanation suggests the decision was related to content rights rather than BTS’ Grammy stance.
The episode, however, highlights a larger conversation about how global artists are represented in major music awards and whether new categories help recognition or create new boundaries.
