Eurovision Song Contest launches first-ever Asia edition

Eurovision Song Contest launches first-ever Asia edition 33 minutes ago Share Save Koh Ewe Share Save Eurovision has grown into the world's longest running international music competition Known for its glitzy stage costumes and sometimes outlandish performances, the Eurovision Song Contest is now launching its first ever Asia edition. Broadcasters from 10 countries in the region, including South Korea, Bhutan, Thailand and the Philippines have confirmed that they will be taking part. According to the contest's website, which lists the participating countries, there are "more to follow". Countries will first host their own national selections before the grand final in Bangkok, to be broadcast live on 14 November. First held in 1956, Eurovision has grown into the world's longest running international music competition. "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 EBU, said in a statement. As a rule, the songs performed at Eurovision must be original and lead vocals sung live. Performers are then voted on by music experts and fans. The competition has supercharged the careers of some of the world's most famous acts, such as Swedish pop group Abba and Canadian singer Celine Dion , who represented Switzerland in 1988. …