On March 14, 2021 BTS became the first South Korean act to perform at the 63rd Grammy Awards. It is the K-Pop group’s first time performing a solo stage as well as being nominated for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for their song “Dynamite” that debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Hot 100.

“BTS is very talented and I thought it was great that they were recognized for it,” said NDB senior Alyssa Enriquez. “I was surprised that they didn’t win the award considering how many records Dynamite broke and how successful they’ve been internationally.”

BTS’ Grammy loss left many fans disappointed as the group truly did deserve the award. The members even got dressed at 2 a.m. to attend virtually, despite the time difference from South Korea, only to receive a loss.

The Grammys were claiming BTS were up next throughout the show, only to leave them for the last performance knowing they were one of the most anticipated acts of the night to gain more viewers. But, it did not work as according to Variety, the show accumulated 8.8 million viewers becoming the least watched telecast Grammys in history.

BTS’ loss added to the discussion of the stigma of racism in which the Grammys fails to recognize artists of color. BTS, The Weeknd, Jhené Aiko, Doja Cat, and more artists of color were snubbed as they had significant cultural impacts in 2020 with their achievements gone unrecognized and swept under the rug. The Grammys claim to have cultural representation in their nominations, but their selective processes have a theme of awarding primarily white artists.

“I’m really proud of BTS for getting to be so successful and influential while maintaining the quality of their music and performances. Including their performance at the Grammys, which was amazing,” said NDB senior Sarah Simmonds. “While I personally think they should’ve been nominated for more awards for their music in Korean and won the award they were nominated in, it’s still such an achievement for them to have been nominated.”

BTS still made history at the Grammys, despite the outcome, for being the first Korean act to perform and be nominated. The media primarily only had Western artists attend American award shows up until BTS changed the game for the music industry.

They are prime examples of how the art and beauty of music is still able to be received despite all barriers, including language. BTS is a huge inspiration as they have paved the way in opening up more opportunities for Korean artists throughout the world.