Minister Choi Huijeong: "Discussing Institutional Improvements to Ensure Universal Viewing Rights for the Olympics and World Cup"

by Park Pyunghee

Published 04 Mar.2026 17:04(KST)

Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Choi Huijeong stated that discussions are underway with the Korea Communications Commission regarding institutional measures to ensure universal viewing rights for major sporting events such as the Olympics and World Cup.

Minister Choi made this announcement during a work report at the plenary session of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee held at the National Assembly on March 4.

Choi Hwiyoung, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, is responding to questions from ruling party lawmakers at the 3rd plenary meeting of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee held at the National Assembly on the 4th. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

Assemblyman Jo Gyewon of the Democratic Party of Korea pointed out during the work report, "The 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics was held for the first time in 62 years without terrestrial broadcasting. As a result, the opening ceremony's viewership was only 1.8%, making it the most neglected Olympics in history due to the public's indifference."

In response, Minister Choi said, "I believe the viewership was lower than expected," agreeing with Assemblyman Jo's assessment. Minister Choi also expressed agreement with Jo's point that global sporting events should be managed as public goods.

Assemblyman Jo further criticized, "Because JTBC had a monopoly as a single channel, the public was essentially deprived of the opportunity to support the athletes. In particular, even when Choi Gaon won a hard-fought gold medal, it was only reported in a brief subtitle, effectively depriving viewers of their right to watch."

Minister Choi explained, "Although the JTBC broadcast is included in the universal viewing rights as defined by the Korea Communications Commission, there were limitations for the entire nation to watch it. Therefore, we are discussing institutional improvements with the Korea Communications Commission to ensure that all citizens can secure their viewing rights."