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Eurovision expands to Asia: Bangkok confirmed as host city; countries list revealed
The much-anticipated song contest is officially expanding eastwards and here’s everything we know so far
- PUBLISHED: Wed 1 Apr 2026, 11:29 AM
The glitz, the high-octane drama and that unmistakable ‘united by music’ spirit are officially migrating East. The European Broadcasting Union has officially set the dates for the much-anticipated extension of the Eurovision Song Contest Asia, following years of hushed murmurs and abandoned ideas.
The spin-off, which will make its big debut in Bangkok on November 14, 2026, represents a significant change for the 70-year-old company as it tries to recreate its kitschy, camp-friendly appeal in a completely different cultural setting. Hosted by Thailand’s Channel 3 at the sleek IdeaLive venue, the inaugural show promises to bridge the diverse music industries of the Asia-Pacific region under one umbrella.
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While the main contest in Vienna will continue its May tradition, this Asian edition is designed as a standalone franchise tailored specifically for its local audiences. The format remains familiar to anyone who has ever spent a late night watching a wind machine go into overdrive.
Each participating country will hold its own national selection to find the perfect song and artist. So far, the lineup is a fascinating mix of ten nations, including heavyweights like South Korea, the Philippines and Vietnam, alongside participants like Bhutan and Nepal. The goal is to tap into a regional audience, offering a platform that, until now, hasn't quite existed on this scale for Asian artists.
Here’s a full list of countries confirmed so far: Thailand (host country), South Korea, Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan.
So, by the time November 2026 rolls around, the world will be watching to see if Bangkok can deliver the same level of iconic, border-defying energy that has made the original contest a global phenomenon.
