This was announced by the EBU, the European Broadcasting Union, on Tuesday morning.
“As we celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Eurovision Song Contest, it feels particularly meaningful to begin this new chapter together with Asia, a region rich in culture, creativity and talent,” said Martin Green, Head of Eurovision Song Contest at the EBU, in a statement.
Four years ago, the Eurovision concept was launched in the United States as the American Song Contest. However, it failed and the program ran for only one season.
The expansion to Asia is the EBU's first initiative to involve more countries on a continent other than Europe. The participating nations are: Thailand, South Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan. The entries for the final in Bangkok will be selected through national finals.
“It's about developing Eurovision together with Asia and building something that reflects the region's voices, identities and ambitions, while maintaining what has always made the competition special,” says Green.
Australia has already participated in the Eurovision Song Contest, which this year will be held in Vienna from May 12 to 16. Sweden's entry is Melodifestivalen winner Felicia with the song "My System".
