The Philippines is set to host the largest edition of the ASEAN–Korea Music Festival, ROUND, this April at the iconic Araneta Coliseum. Organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and KBS WORLD TV, the two-day free concert on 18–19 April 2026 promises to be a landmark event during the country’s 2026 ASEAN Chairmanship. The festival will feature a star-studded lineup of artists from across Southeast Asia and Korea, celebrating cultural exchange through music.
The announcement, made at a high-profile press conference in Quezon City, highlighted the return of ROUND to the Philippines after a six-year hiatus. Director Lee Hansol of KBS WORLD TV described the event as a long-awaited “homecoming.” “The very first ROUND in 2020 was originally supposed to be held right here in the Philippines,” she shared. “We had to wait six years because of the pandemic, but that wait only makes this moment more meaningful.” The festival, hosted by Korean singer-songwriter 10CM, will unite artists from both regions to create a shared celebration of music and diplomacy.
Philippine acts a central role in the festival. An event with the performances from Ben&Ben, the nation’s beloved folk-pop band; TJ Monterde, the soulful acoustic balladeer; Cup of Joe, rising stars from Baguio; and global P-pop sensations HORI7ON. P-pop group KAIA also made a special appearance at the press conference. These artists will join an international roster, including Korea’s MeloMance, Brunei’s Syafiq Abdilah, Cambodia’s G-Devith, Indonesia’s Pamungkas, Lao PDR’s JoJo Miracle, Malaysia’s MIMIFLY, Myanmar’s Velocity, Singapore’s Regina Song, Thailand’s Tilly Birds, and Vietnam’s Chillies.
The event underscores the Philippines’ role as a cultural leader in ASEAN. NCCA Chairman Eric B. Zerrudo emphasized the festival’s significance: “We look forward to a future where the Philippines becomes a capital for performing arts in the ASEAN region—shaped by the natural talent of Filipinos, nurtured by our communities and our neighboring countries.” With free admission for all, the festival aims to foster inclusivity and regional unity.
Organizers have outlined a two-month ticket reservation process. Online reservations open in February 2026, with confirmed registrants able to claim tickets in March. The Araneta Coliseum, a cornerstone of Manila’s entertainment scene, will serve as the venue for this historic gathering.
ROUND is an annual project of the ASEAN–Korea Cooperation Fund and the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Supported by the ASEAN–Korea Cooperation Fund, the festival aligns with broader efforts to strengthen people-to-people ties. The 2026 edition marks a milestone, fulfilling a promise delayed by global events.
“Beyond the performances, this is a celebration that places the people at the heart of regional diplomacy,” said Director Lee. Chairman Zerrudo added, “This is a historic opportunity to showcase the richness of our cultural heritage.”
Fans can follow @roundfestival, @nccaofficial, and @kbsworldtv on social media for updates. The event promises to be a vibrant fusion of P-pop, K-pop, and ASEAN music, uniting audiences in a shared love for the arts.
Event Details
Dates: 18–19 April 2026
Venue: Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City
Admission: FREE (Reserve in February 2026; claim tickets in March 2026)
Organizers: KBS WORLD TV, NCCA
Sponsor: ASEAN–Korea Cooperation Fund
The ROUND Festival’s return to Manila signifies more than a music event—it is a testament to resilience, collaboration, and the unifying power of culture. As the countdown to April begins, anticipation builds for a celebration that bridges continents and generations through song.
