JTBC, KBS to Exclusively Broadcast North, Central, and South American World Cup in South Korea

South Korean football fans will be able to follow the upcoming North, Central, and South American World Cup exclusively on JTBC and KBS, as the two broadcasters have finalized their joint coverage deal. JTBC announced on May 22 that it had secured the TV broadcasting rights and subsequently confirmed a co-broadcasting agreement with KBS after terrestrial broadcasters MBC and SBS declined the offer.

“

JTBC has finalized the resale of TV broadcasting rights as of today and is preparing in earnest.

The decision by MBC and SBS not to pursue the resale rights stems from JTBC's asking price of 14 billion won. This figure was considered too high by the terrestrial networks, which had previously negotiated with JTBC following the latter's sole broadcasting of the Beijing Winter Olympics. The Winter Olympics broadcast, which did not achieve the expected success, seemingly influenced the negotiations for the World Cup rights.

This year's World Cup promises an expanded format, with 104 matches being played across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, a significant increase from the traditional 64 games. JTBC has assembled a top-tier broadcasting team, including commentator Bae Seong-jae, to deliver live coverage of every moment from the tournament, which kicks off on June 11. The South Korean national team's opening match is scheduled for June 12 at 11 a.m. (Korean time) against the Czech Republic in Group A.

“

As a result of receiving replies from the terrestrial broadcasters by yesterday under the same conditions proposed to them, we have confirmed joint broadcasting with KBS.

For South Korean viewers, the exclusive coverage by JTBC and KBS ensures access to all matches, albeit through a limited selection of channels compared to previous tournaments where multiple broadcasters might have shared rights. This consolidation highlights the evolving media landscape and the strategic decisions made by broadcasters in acquiring major sporting event rights. The focus now shifts to how JTBC and KBS will deliver the tournament and whether the expanded format will translate into increased viewership and fan engagement.

“

JTBC will deliver every moment of the matches played on the other side of the globe to your living rooms with the best broadcasting team, including commentator Bae Seong-jae.