[Dispatch=Reporter Tae-yun Jung] The Grammy Awards will present the "Asian Pop" category as planned. The Recording Academy did not change its stance despite BTS's boycott.

Variety reported on the 1st (local time) a statement from Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy. He conveyed his intention to maintain the Asian Pop category at next year's Grammy Awards ceremony.

CEO Mason said, "The Best Asian Pop Music Performance category will be presented at the 69th Grammy Awards," and "Over the past few weeks, we have listened to and continued conversations with leaders in the Asian music industry."

The conclusion was to maintain it. He stated, "The voices of those who strongly support this category were louder," and emphasized, "While this conclusion may not satisfy everyone, I am confident it is the right conclusion for the entire music industry."

The category was newly established in June. It targets pop performances that originated in or are widely recognized in Asian markets such as K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop. It must meaningfully use at least one Asian language.

Eligibility is determined by music style, not by the performer's nationality or ethnicity. Songs with lyrics entirely in English cannot be submitted.

Controversy arose shortly after its establishment. Criticism emerged that Asian music was being separated into a distinct category and excluded from mainstream competition.

BTS announced in July that it would not submit its regular fifth album "Arirang" to the Grammys. The reason was that they hope the music is heard for itself and not divided by region or language.

Subsequently, the Academy began a review in August. It exchanged opinions with figures from K-pop, J-pop, C-pop, and Indian music industries, including HIBE. However, the conclusion was to maintain the original plan.

According to the Academy, sufficient submissions have been received. Grammy Awards nominees will be announced on the 17th of next month. The ceremony will be held on February 7 next year in Los Angeles, United States.

<Photo source=Big Hit Music>