South Korean boy band Stray Kids finally spoke about BTS‘s decision to skip the Grammy Awards. But instead of picking a side, the group chose to keep their answer neutral and focused on their own music journey.
The conversation happened during a press conference in Seoul for their new mini album THIS & THAT. Reporters asked the group about BTS’ recent choice not to submit music for the 2027 Grammy Awards. BTS made that decision after the Recording Academy created a new category called Best Asian Pop Music Performance. Many fans and artists felt this category separates Asian musicians instead of giving them equal chances in main Grammy categories.
Stray Kids Members Give Careful Response
When the question came up, Seungmin did not directly comment on BTS’ position. Instead, he talked about how Stray Kids creates music.
“When we talk about the music we love, we don’t create performances, write songs, or write lyrics based on outside opinions. We focus on what’s in our hearts. Rather than paying attention to outside noise, we’ve continued to put the colors and stories we want to tell into our music.”
Seungmin also expressed thankfulness for K-pop’s global success.
“We’re truly grateful that K-Pop is receiving so much love around the world, and it reminds us once again of the power of music. Realizing that our music can have an impact on so many people motivates us to keep making music that reaches as many listeners as possible.”
Hyunjin, another member, shared similar thoughts. He made it clear that awards have never been the group’s main reason for making music.
“Since debuting as Stray Kids, we’ve never once promoted with awards or records as our goal. It’ll be the same with this album. We’ll show people everything we’ve got and prove ourselves through our music. Our biggest priority is making our fans happy.”
Neither member said whether they agree or disagree with BTS’ boycott.
BTS Decision to Skip Grammys Creates Discussion
BTS announced on July 29, 2026 that they would not submit their latest album for Grammy consideration. All seven members posted the same statement on their Instagram accounts.
“We have decided not to submit to the Grammys this year. We hope our music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language.”
The Recording Academy introduced the Best Asian Pop Music Performance category in June 2026. Many critics argued this move puts Asian artists in a separate box instead of giving them fair competition in main categories. Some fans even suggested the category was created to stop BTS from winning major awards.
Harvey Mason Jr. , the CEO of the Grammys, responded to the backlash and said he respected BTS’ decision.
Fans React to Stray Kids’ Comments
The response from Stray Kids did not sit well with everyone. Some fans, especially those in the ARMY (BTS fandom), felt the group avoided the real issue.
Many social media users accused Stray Kids of “beating around the bush”. One critic wrote on social media that the members were asked about one thing but started talking about something completely different.
Another commenter said Stray Kids would accept a Grammy nomination even if the new category separates Asian artists. The backlash spread quickly across platforms like X (formerly Twitter).
But not all reactions were negative. Some fans appreciated that Stray Kids stayed true to their own philosophy and did not get pulled into controversy. Supporters pointed out that the group has always focused on their music and their fans, known as STAY.
New Album THIS & THAT Drops Amid Grammy Talk
The press conference also marked the release of Stray Kids’ 10th EP, THIS & THAT. The mini album came out on August 7, 2026. It features eight songs, including the title track of the same name.
The group’s production team 3RACHA (Bang Chan, Changbin, and HAN) handled all the songwriting and production for the album. This shows the members’ strong involvement in creating their own music.
The album is their first new release in about nine months, following their previous album Do It from November 2025.
Will Stray Kids Submit for Grammys?
One big question remains unanswered. Stray Kids did not confirm whether they plan to submit their music for Grammy consideration.
When asked directly about the new Asian Pop category, Seungmin chose not to give a clear answer. JYP Entertainment, the group’s agency, also declined to comment when asked by The Korea Herald.
Music critic Lim Hee-yun shared an interesting point. She said that even if Stray Kids decide to enter, THIS & THAT might not be the album they submit. The release date falls very close to the Grammy submission deadline, which ends on August 21, 2026. This leaves little time for the album to gain traction with voters. An earlier hit song from their catalog might have a better chance.
The 69th Grammy Awards will take place on February 7, 2027. Nominees are scheduled to be announced on November 16, 2026.
Also Read:
What This Means for K-Pop at the Grammys
BTS remains the only K-pop group to receive direct Grammy nominations, with five nominations over the past years. Their decision to skip the 2027 awards marks the first time they have opted out of the Grammy process.
With BTS out of the race, many see Stray Kids as strong contenders. But the group made it clear that awards are not their driving force.
The debate over the Asian Pop category continues. Some see it as a step forward for representation. Others view it as a way to keep Asian artists from competing in main categories. BTS took a stand by refusing to participate. Stray Kids chose to stay out of the argument and focus on their own path.
For now, Stray Kids are putting their energy into their new album and their fans. Whether they submit for Grammys or not, the group says their priority remains the same. They want to make music that connects with people and makes their supporters happy.
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