Harmonies Across Borders: Philippines Hosts ASEAN–Korea ROUND Festival 2026
By Bon Labora
QUEZON CITY — The Philippines will once again open its doors to the region’s diverse rhythms and shared stories as it hosts the ASEAN-Korea Music Festival 2026, popularly known as the ROUND Festival, on April 18 and 19 at the Araneta Coliseum in Manila.
Set against the country’s chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026, the festival reflects the Philippines’ growing role as a cultural crossroads in the region. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), together with KBS WORLD and the ROUND Secretariat, announced that the Philippines will welcome artists and audiences from across ASEAN and South Korea in a celebration where music becomes a living expression of dialogue, solidarity, and shared heritage.
First launched in 2020 by Korean public broadcaster KBS, the ROUND Festival has evolved into more than a concert series. It has become a platform for cultural exchange, where contemporary sounds echo deeper connections among nations. With the Philippines as host, the 2026 edition is expected to highlight the country’s tradition of hospitality and its enduring belief in culture as a unifying force.
The iconic Araneta Coliseum—long woven into the fabric of Filipino popular culture—will serve as the festival’s stage, symbolizing the meeting of regional traditions and modern creativity. Korean singer-songwriter 10CM, widely known for his evocative music and contributions to Korean drama soundtracks, has been confirmed both as festival host and performer, bringing his artistry to Filipino audiences.
A production press conference to mark the festival’s official launch will be held on January 28, 2026, at the Quantum Skyview Deck in Gateway Mall. Filipino pop groups HORI7ON and KAIA will participate as presenters, offering a glimpse of the collaborative spirit and cultural exchange that will define the festival.
True to the festival’s inclusive vision, the 2026 ROUND Festival will be open to the public free of charge. Attendance will be facilitated through advance registration, with full details and schedules to be released on official ROUND Festival platforms in February 2026.
The NCCA underscored that hosting the ROUND Festival supports its mandate to foster cultural understanding and showcase Filipino creativity on the international stage. Additional performers and program highlights will be announced in the coming months.
For the latest updates, the public is encouraged to follow the official ROUND Festival accounts on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
