The Eurovision Song Contest is set to expand into Asia with the launch of a new regional competition, with the grand final scheduled to take place in Bangkok later this year.

Organisers have confirmed that the inaugural Eurovision Song Contest Asia final will be held on November 14 in Thailand’s capital. Ten countries are set to participate alongside the host nation, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, South Korea and Vietnam.

Martin Green, Eurovision Song Contest director, said, “As we mark the 70th anniversary of the Eurovision Song Contest, it feels especially meaningful to open this next chapter with Asia, a region rich in culture, creativity and talent.

“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.”

Each participating country will select its entry through national competitions, mirroring the established European format.

Chuwit Sirivajjakul, deputy governor for policy and planning at the Thailand Tourism Authority, welcomed the decision to host the event in Bangkok. He said: “When I heard that the European Broadcasting Union and Voxovation were considering Bangkok as the home for the Eurovision Song Contest Asia, I thought, of course, it should be Bangkok.

“Because this city has always been a place where cultures come together, where music fills the air, and where celebration is part of everyday life.

“It is a place where tradition and innovation do not compete. They collaborate.

“That is the spirit of Eurovision, which celebrates the unity of diverse musical voices from across Asia and beyond.”

The new contest forms part of a partnership between the European Broadcasting Union, Voxovation and S2O Productions, marking a significant expansion of the long-running music competition beyond Europe.