EBU Launches Eurovision Song Contest Asia in Bangkok 2026

The European Broadcasting Union has announced the launch of the first Eurovision Song Contest Asia, with its grand final set for November 14, 2026, in Bangkok, Thailand. Ten countries across the region, including Thailand, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, South Korea, and Vietnam, have confirmed participation, and more are expected to join in the coming weeks.

The event marks a significant expansion of the long-running music competition, which celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2026. Organized by the EBU in partnership with Los Angeles-based Voxovation, Thailand's S2O Productions, and local broadcaster Channel 3, the Asian edition will follow a format similar to its European counterpart. Each participating nation will hold its own national selection process to choose an artist and original song, culminating in live performances at the Bangkok final. Songs must feature live lead vocals, and winners will be determined by a mix of expert juries and public votes.

Martin Green, director of the Eurovision Song Contest, highlighted the initiative's cultural resonance. "As we mark the 70th anniversary of the Eurovision Song Contest, it feels...