Stray Kids have reportedly decided not to submit any music for the 69th Grammy Awards, a move that has sparked an unexpected reaction online. According to a Sports Kyunghyang report cited by Koreaboo, the group did not submit any works before the deadline, meaning their music cannot enter the nomination review process or appear on the voting ballot.

The decision comes shortly after Billboard identified Stray Kids as one of the potential contenders for the Recording Academy's newly introduced Asian Pop category. While some fans have praised the group for choosing not to participate, others have mocked the decision and questioned whether the group would have had a realistic chance of receiving a nomination.

Stray Kids Reportedly Decide Not To Submit For The Grammys

According to the report, Stray Kids did not submit songs or albums for consideration ahead of the Grammy deadline. Under the Recording Academy's rules, music that is not officially submitted cannot move into the nomination review stage or be placed on the voting ballot.

The timing has attracted attention because the group had recently been mentioned among possible contenders for the new Asian Pop award. Their latest album, DO IT, released on August 7, reportedly became their ninth No. 1 album on the Billboard 200, while its title track reached No. 38 on the Billboard Hot 100.

New Asian Pop Category Adds Another Layer To The Decision

The group's decision comes during a significant change at the Grammys, with the Recording Academy introducing a dedicated Asian Pop category. Billboard had listed Stray Kids among artists who could potentially compete for recognition in the new category.

The development has created discussion among K-pop fans about whether a separate category gives Asian artists greater recognition or places them into a more limited category. Some Stray Kids supporters have argued that the group does not need Western awards validation, while others questioned why they would skip an opportunity for Grammy recognition.

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Stray Kids Follow BTS' Earlier Grammy Decision

Stray Kids' reported decision also comes after BTS announced earlier this year that they would not submit music for this year's Grammys. BTS made the decision after the Recording Academy announced the new Asian Pop category, and their choice was widely discussed online as a boycott.

Stray Kids' move has therefore been compared with BTS' earlier decision, with some fans welcoming what they see as a similar stance. Others have used the comparison to criticise Stray Kids, showing how quickly the Grammy discussion has turned into a debate between different K-pop fandoms.

Fans React With Both Support And Criticism

The response to Stray Kids' Grammy decision has been sharply divided. Some fans praised the members for staying focused on their music rather than seeking recognition from Western award shows. Others mocked the group and argued that refusing to submit was different from being overlooked by the Grammys.

Despite not submitting music, all eight Stray Kids members reportedly remain Recording Academy voting members after being appointed earlier this year. This means their connection with the organisation continues even though they will not have submitted music for consideration this year.

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