In a landmark expansion of its iconic brand, the Eurovision Song Contest is launching its inaugural Asian edition, marking a significant milestone in its 70-year history. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has confirmed that broadcasters from ten nations across the region—including South Korea, Bhutan, Thailand, and the Philippines—have committed to participate, with additional countries expected to join. The grand final is scheduled for November 14 in Bangkok, following national selection rounds in each participating country.
Martin Green, EBU’s Director of the Eurovision Song Contest, emphasized the symbolic timing of this expansion during the competition’s anniversary year, noting Asia’s profound cultural richness and creative talent. The contest will maintain its core rules: all performed songs must be original compositions, with live lead vocals. A hybrid voting system combining professional juries and public televoting will determine the winner.
Since its inception in 1956, Eurovision has evolved into the world’s longest-running international music competition, catapulting artists like ABBA and Celine Dion to global stardom. Last year’s edition attracted approximately 163 million viewers worldwide, featuring diverse musical genres from energetic anthems to heartfelt ballads.
However, the contest has not been immune to geopolitical tensions. Recent editions have witnessed boycotts related to Israel’s participation, while Russia remains excluded since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine—leading Moscow to establish its rival Intervision competition. Previous attempts to create an Asian version since the 2000s had proven unsuccessful until this breakthrough collaboration.
Thailand’s tourism authorities have enthusiastically endorsed Bangkok as host city. Chuwit Sirivajjakul, a senior official at the Thailand Tourism Authority, described the capital as a natural convergence point for cultures where music and celebration are integral to daily life. The event is jointly organized by the EBU, Los Angeles-based Voxovation, and Thailand’s S2O Productions.