Japanese media outlet TBS News reported on June 23 that JTBC, which is responsible for airing all World Cup matches in South Korea, has failed to pay a portion of the broadcast rights fees owed to FIFA, the tournament's organizing body.
TBS highlighted that JTBC is experiencing severe financial difficulties. The network secured domestic broadcasting rights for the tournament for approximately $125 million (about 190 billion won) but encountered challenges in negotiating resale rights with the three major terrestrial broadcasters (KBS, MBC, and SBS). Ultimately, JTBC signed a joint broadcasting contract with KBS, but the amount paid by KBS to JTBC for the rights was reportedly around 14 billion won.
Due to difficulties in monetizing these rights, JTBC has applied for corporate rehabilitation proceedings in court last week.
TBS warned that if the unpaid broadcast rights fees are not settled by the deadline, there is a risk that TV broadcasts in South Korea could be completely halted starting with the Round of 32 matches on June 29.
The uncertainty also extends to the viewing of matches involving the South Korean national team, which is aiming for advancement to the knockout stage. Under the guidance of coach Hong Myung-bo, the team currently holds a record of one win and one loss in Group A. The outcome of their final group match against South Africa on June 25 at Monterrey Stadium will determine their advancement to the tournament.
Even if the team qualifies for the Round of 32, fans may face a situation where they cannot watch the matches at home if negotiations over broadcast rights fail.
TBS quoted a JTBC representative stating that a company official is currently in Switzerland negotiating with FIFA regarding the continuation of broadcasts. However, JTBC reportedly told TBS that it could not confirm this information.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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