The Eurovision Song Contest, famed for its extravagant costumes and often over-the-top performances, is set to debut an Asian edition for the first time.

Broadcasters from 10 countries, including South Korea, Bhutan, Thailand and the Philippines, have confirmed participation. According to Eurovision’s official website, more countries are expected to join.

Each nation will hold its own national selection before the grand final, scheduled for Nov. 14 in Bangkok, which will be broadcast live.

Since its inaugural event in 1956, Eurovision has become the longest-running international music competition in the world.

“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,” Martin Green, director of the Eurovision Song Contest at the European Broadcasting Union, said in a statement.

Contest rules require songs to be original and lead vocals performed live. Performers are judged by a combination of music experts and fan votes.

The competition has helped launch global careers, including Swedish pop group Abba and Canadian singer Celine Dion, who represented Switzerland in 1988.

Last year, an estimated 163 million viewers tuned in, enjoying performances that ranged from upbeat dance tracks to heartfelt ballads.

The contest has also seen its share of political controversies. Some nations are boycotting this year’s event, to be held in Vienna in May, over Israel’s participation. Russia has been banned from competing since 2022 following its invasion of Ukraine and has since launched its own international contest, Intervision.

Efforts to create an Asian version of Eurovision date back to the 2000s, though past initiatives never fully materialized.

Chuwit Sirivajjakul, a senior official at the Thailand Tourism Authority, said Bangkok was the natural choice to host the Asia edition. “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,” he said.

The Asian edition is being organized by the European Broadcasting Union in collaboration with Los Angeles-based entertainment company Voxovation and Thailand-based S2O Productions.