Aug 06, 2026 6:53pm IST
Stray Kids Talks About Grammys’ Asian Pop Category Amid BTS’ Boycott: ‘Never Promoted With Awards As Goal’
Stray Kids has responded to the ongoing scrutiny around the Recording Academy’s decision to add a new category to its lineup, Best Asian Pop Music Performance. Speaking at the group’s press conference for their upcoming mini album “THIS & THAT,” they addressed the controversy involving BTS’ decision not to submit their music for the upcoming Grammy Awards. While choosing not to speak directly about the senior group’s stance or whether they’ll be submitting their music this year, the team’s members shared their thoughts on
Related Stories
“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,” said member Seungmin, according to Xports News.
He added, “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.”
Popular on Variety
Meanwhile, on being asked specifically about the new category, member Hyunjin shared, “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.”
Stray Kids has not yet been nominated at the Grammys, but their increasing popularity makes them strong contenders for the upcoming ceremony. Recently, all eight members of the team, alongside fellow JYP Entertainment singers and members of the girl group TWICE, were invited to be a part of the voting committee.
Comments are moderated. They may be edited for clarity and reprinting in whole or in part in Variety publications.