[Breaking] Unpaid broadcast rights? JTBC: "No disruption to Korean national team's World Cup coverage"

*This content was translated by AI.

JTBC dismissed concerns raised by some regarding whether the 2026 North, Central America and Caribbean World Cup matches involving South Korea would be broadcast after the tournament stage, stating that "coverage will proceed without any disruption."

In an official statement on the 24th, JTBC said, "We will broadcast all matches of the 2026 FIFA North, Central America and Caribbean World Cup, including the final, without any disruption," and added, "We plan to vividly convey the World Cup from the matches of the South Korean national team all the way to the final of the tournament."

Previously, Japanese TBS News reported exclusively on the 23rd (Korea time) that "there is a possibility that World Cup matches may not be viewable in South Korea."

According to the report, JTBC, which holds the broadcast rights for this North, Central America and Caribbean World Cup, is said to have failed to pay part of the broadcast rights fees to FIFA. Additionally, TBS News explained that JTBC has fallen into financial difficulties due to soaring broadcast rights fees and difficulties in reselling rights, along with news that the company had filed for corporate reorganization proceedings with the court last week.

The media outlet reported, "If the unpaid broadcast rights fees are not paid by the deadline, there is concern that TV coverage after the final tournament starting on the 29th in South Korea may not be permitted." It also added that when a comment was requested from JTBC, the response was "we cannot confirm."

TBS News, citing a source, reported that "the current JTBC official is in Switzerland and is in the stage of negotiating with FIFA to ensure coverage can proceed."

Meanwhile, South Korea, which belongs to Group A in this tournament, has recorded one win and one loss (3 points), placing second in the group. If South Korea secures at least a draw in the Group Stage's third match against South Africa on the 25th, it will confirm its advancement to the Round of 32.

[Notice regarding JTBC World Cup coverage]

JTBC will broadcast all matches of the 2026 FIFA North, Central America and Caribbean World Cup, including the final, without any disruption.

We plan to vividly convey the World Cup from the matches of the South Korean national team all the way to the final of the tournament, so please be aware that there may be errors in incorrect information.

Thank you.

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*This content was translated by AI.