Eurovision is expanding to Asia, the European Broadcasting Union announced Tuesday, unveiling the first contest to be held on the continent.
The inaugural competition will take place in Bangkok on Nov. 14, with 10 countries confirmed to participate: Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal. Additional countries are expected to join, according to the EBU.
The format will mirror the European contest, with countries participating through national broadcasters and selecting their representatives via national finals, similar to Eurovision pre-selection competitions.
Eurovision Director Martin Green said the new project “reflects the voices, identities and aspirations of the region while maintaining what has always made the contest special.”
The announcement comes during a complex year for the EBU and Eurovision, as the contest marks its 70th anniversary under the slogan “United by Music.” That message has been strained, however, with several countries withdrawing over Israel’s participation for political reasons.