What is Eurovision Song Contest Asia?
Eurovision Song Contest Asia is the first Asian edition of the Eurovision franchise and launches in 2026. Organized by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and its partners, the competition brings together artists from across Asia in a multinational live music event inspired by the original Eurovision Song Contest. The inaugural Grand Final is scheduled for 14 November 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Quick Facts
Event: Eurovision Song Contest Asia
First edition: 2026
Grand Final: Saturday, 14 November 2026
Host city: Bangkok
Host country: Thailand
Organizer: European Broadcasting Union (EBU)
Partners: Voxovation, S2O Productions and Thailand's Channel 3
Confirmed countries: 10 (with more expected)
Slogan: "United by Music"
Eurovision Goes to Asia
For decades, the Eurovision Song Contest has been one of the world's most recognizable live music competitions. Since 1956, the Contest has united countries through music, television and live performances. In 2026, Eurovision enters a new era with its first multinational expansion outside its traditional European format: Eurovision Song Contest Asia.
According to organizers, the project is built around the same core idea that shaped Eurovision for 70 years: bringing audiences together through music and cultural exchange. The Asian edition aims to create a shared stage for artists from different countries, languages and musical traditions across the continent.
Why is it called Eurovision if it takes place in Asia?
This is one of the most common questions fans ask. The Eurovision brand has long expanded beyond geographical Europe. Countries outside Europe have participated in the original contest before, including Australia, which joined Eurovision as a guest and later became a regular participant.
Eurovision itself is based on broadcasting partnerships and membership structures rather than geography. With Eurovision Song Contest Asia, organizers are extending the Eurovision format and identity to a new region while keeping the original spirit and production model intact.
Where will Eurovision Song Contest Asia 2026 take place?
The inaugural Eurovision Song Contest Asia will be held in Bangkok, one of Asia’s largest cultural and entertainment hubs. The Grand Final is officially scheduled for Saturday, 14 November 2026.
Organizers selected Bangkok as the launch location for the new event and highlighted the city’s music scene and international appeal.
Which countries are participating?
At launch, broadcasters from 10 countries have already been confirmed, with more expected to join in the future. Current participants include:
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Bangladesh
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Bhutan
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Cambodia
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Laos
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Malaysia
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Nepal
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Philippines
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South Korea
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Thailand
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Vietnam
How does Eurovision Asia work?
The competition follows many familiar Eurovision rules. Current information indicates:
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Songs must remain under 3 minutes.
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A maximum of 6 performers may appear on stage.
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Participating broadcasters are expected to select artists nationally.
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Results will be decided through a combined jury and public voting system.
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The voting model is expected to use a 50/50 split between juries and viewers.
Why Eurovision Asia Could become a major event
The EBU says Eurovision Song Contest Asia could reach a potential audience of more than 600 million people across the region. Organizers view the competition as a major step in Eurovision’s global development strategy.
The project also arrives at a time when Asian music industries, especially pop markets in countries like South Korea, have developed strong international audiences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Eurovision Song Contest Asia official?
Yes. The competition was officially announced by the EBU and launched as Eurovision's first multinational Asian expansion.
When is Eurovision Song Contest Asia?
The Grand Final takes place on 14 November 2026.
Where is Eurovision Asia held?
The first edition will take place in Bangkok, Thailand.
How many countries are participating?
10 countries have been confirmed so far, with more expected.
Is Eurovision Asia the same as Eurovision?
It is a separate competition based on the Eurovision format and produced under the Eurovision brand. Here you can find more details about the differences between Eurovision Song Contest Asia and Eurovision Song Contest.