‘Grammy boycott’ BTS takes a satisfying jab at the concert too: “What do they know about us anyway?”

BTS’s RM is drawing attention after making a meaningful remark during the group’s world tour.

The seven BTS members recently stated that they had decided not to submit music to this year’s Grammy Awards, citing the newly established Best Asian Pop Music Performance category. It is unprecedented for music to be grouped by country rather than genre.

The members went on to express their convictions, saying, "We hope that music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being classified by region or language."

Following the group’s sudden boycott announcement, the CEO personally responded. In a statement, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. explained, "I understand and respect their decision, but the Best Asian Pop Music Performance category was created to celebrate the depth, diversity, and remarkable growth of pop music coming from Asia. It was not intended to categorize or separate anyone." However, internet users around the world pointed out that the very name “Asian pop” reflects a Western-centric way of thinking.

As praise pours in from around the world for BTS’s courageous decision to stand against prejudice and discrimination, RM once again appeared to take aim at the Grammy Awards with a remark during the group’s world tour concert, sending ARMY, the name of the group’s fandom, into a frenzy.

While performing the world tour ARIRANG in New Jersey, RM slightly altered the original lyrics during the performance of “Mic Drop” and shouted, "Haters gonna hate, and we players gonna play. Born in Korea. That’s why they don’t know ’bout us." The original lyrics were, "Haters gon' hate, Players gon' play. Live a life. man, Good luck."

Jin added to the moment by shouting, "There’s nothing more to see, this is my final goodbye. I have nothing more to say, so don’t apologize," drawing cheers from the audience.

According to reports from local New Jersey media, some ARMY members also attended the concert holding signs opposing submissions to the Grammy Awards.

iMBC Entertainment Kim Jong-eun | Photo courtesy of Big Hit Music