JTBC hosted a press conference for the <2026 FIFA World Cup> on May 21 at the Ambassador Seoul Pullman Hotel. The event was attended by JTBC broadcasting director Kwak Jun-seok, casters Bae Sung-jae, Lee Kwang-yong, and Jung Yong-gum, as well as commentators Park Ji-sung, Kim Hwan, and Lee Ju-heon.
During the event, Bae Sung-jae shared, “This is my third time teaming up with Park Ji-sung for broadcasting. Since we’re already close and I even set him up on a blind date, it feels like traveling with a friend.” He added, “Even if the results aren’t great, it will still be history.”
Park Ji-sung jokingly responded, “I’m being dragged along because I have a debt of gratitude to repay.” He continued, “Our chemistry is getting better and I’m picking up more know-how. Even my wife is training me, so I’m preparing well.” He also rated their chemistry, saying, “I’m aiming for over 90 points this time. The first tournament was under 80, and the second felt like around 85.”
Previously, JTBC announced that they have confirmed a joint broadcast with KBS for the 2026 World Cup.
JTBC secured the broadcasting rights for approximately 125 million USD (about 190 billion KRW). After some difficult negotiations regarding the cost-sharing with terrestrial broadcasters, KBS eventually accepted a condition of approximately 14 billion KRW.
The 2026 World Cup will be the first-ever joint hosting by three countries: the USA, Canada, and Mexico. It will be the largest World Cup ever, expanding to 48 teams with a total of 104 matches, running from June 11 to July 19.
South Korea has been placed in Group A alongside Mexico, South Africa, and the Czech Republic. The team will start their group stage journey with a match against the Czech Republic on June 12 at 11 AM (KST).
