Grammys 2026: Rosé makes K-pop history as BTS gets snubbed

The 2026 Grammy nominations have marked a pivotal moment for K-pop and global music alike. Rosé, well-known as a member of BLACKPINK, enters history as the first K-pop artist nominated in one of the Grammys’ most prestigious categories, Record of the Year, for her collaboration with Bruno Mars on the track “APT.” The song is also nominated for Song of the Year and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. These nominations signal a major shift in the Recording Academy’s recognition of K-pop’s global influence.

Despite this breakthrough, the nominations also spotlight what many see as a glaring oversight: BTS did not receive any nods this year, even though its individual members released solo work that made waves worldwide. Fans and industry watchers argue the band’s absence remains one of the most conspicuous snubs in a year packed with unexpected inclusions and genre-shifting nominations.

Industry analysts believe this dual narrative—of breakthrough and snub—captures the changing face of global music. While Rosé’s achievement offers hope that K-pop can finally win big at the Grammys, the omission of BTS underlines a continuing tension over how and when the Academy honors non-English and genre-crossing acts. For the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, scheduled for February 1, 2026 in Los Angeles, all eyes will be on K-pop and whether this moment translates into wins or remains symbolic.

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