The over-the-top pop exuberance of Eurovision is heading to Asia.
The inaugural Asian edition of the famed song contest will take place this fall, with the finale scheduled for Nov. 14 in Bangkok. National selection shows will take place across the participating countries, with 10 already signed on and more expected to join the festivities.
The 10 competing countries currently include: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam. More countries are expected to join the festivities as well.
The expansion comes as Eurovision prepares to celebrate its 70th anniversary this year. With that landmark in mind, Eurovision’s director, Martin Green, said in a statement that “it feels especially meaningful to open this next chapter with Asia, a region rich in culture, creativity and talent.”
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He continued: “This is about evolving Eurovision together with Asia, building something that reflects the voices, identities and ambitions of the region, while staying true to what has always made the Contest special. Eurovision Song Contest Asia will be shaped by the artists, broadcasters and audiences who make it their own, continuing our shared journey of being United by Music.”
This marks Eurovision’s second big attempt at international expansion after launching the American Song Contest in 2022. That show featured contestants from all 50 states, with Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson hosting, but the show failed to gain much momentum and was not renewed for a second season.
As for Eurovision 2026, the finals and semi-finals are slated for this May, with Austria serving as the host country. Several countries, however, are boycotting this year’s contests — including Slovenia, Iceland, Ireland, Spain, and the Netherlands — over Israel’s inclusion due to the country’s ongoing war in Gaza. Russia will also not compete as it has been banned since 2002 over its war in Ukraine.
Josh Martin for Rolling Stone
