Republic of Korea is preparing to make its debut at the Eurovision Song Contest Asia with a brand-new national selection show titled "Korea's Next Wave." This show aims to highlight a new generation of South Korean artists by selecting the country’s first representative for the contest scheduled to take place in Bangkok on Saturday, 14 November 2024.

Show Details and Participation

The selection show will be broadcast on Friday, 4 September 2024, starting at 16:00 CEST (23:00 KST). Viewers in South Korea can watch it via the broadcaster ENA, while international audiences can stream it live on the official Eurovision Song Contest YouTube channel. The show is expected to last about 90 minutes.

Audience involvement is a key part of "Korea's Next Wave." Anyone worldwide can vote for their favourite acts through the Eurovision Asia website, with voting being free and allowing up to eight votes across at least three different songs. Votes from inside South Korea will account for 40% of the final result, international votes will represent 20%, and the remaining 40% will come from a professional jury panel.

Hosts and Jury

The show will be hosted by renowned K-Pop artist Jo Kwon, a member of boyband 2AM, who will also introduce a star-studded entertainment line-up throughout the event. The professional jury comprises respected music and entertainment figures including Joo Young Hoon, Chaerina, Yoonhan, Hyungtag Lee, and KLOZER, who will provide feedback and commentary after each performance.

Competing Artists

Eight acts representing a variety of music genres will compete:

  • Sojeong Shim: A classically trained harpist and singer-songwriter blending acoustic and electric harp with pop and electronic sounds.
  • KIK: A trio band influenced by alternative rock and Britpop, focused on musical simplicity and collaboration.
  • huiAe: A solo R&B and ballad artist collaborating with producer JUNGL$ and composer Tomajo, drawing inspiration from unique sources.
  • ANGEL NOISE: A duo combining vocals, dance, songwriting, and keys with a name reflecting their dynamic sound; they aspire to perform in Europe.
  • Younghoon Ji: A singer-songwriter known for his guitar-driven pop-rock and songwriting versatility with credits in important Korean music shows.
  • 9278: A university-formed band performing various pop genres and focusing on capturing emotional moments in their music.
  • PLZY: A singer-songwriter delivering calming and reflective pop and R&B music inspired by ambient sounds.
  • JUNHEE: A solo artist balancing roles as singer and CEO, creating upbeat pop, R&B, and dance music aimed at spreading positive energy.

The winner of "Korea's Next Wave" will have the honour of representing the Republic of Korea at the inaugural Eurovision Song Contest Asia, marking an exciting new chapter for the country's music scene on the international stage.