KBS

The U.S. opening match, where BLACKPINK member Lisa took the stage for a celebratory performance, generated buzz.

KBS, which is providing the exclusive terrestrial live broadcast of the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup, ranked No. 1 in ratings for the live broadcast of the United States versus Paraguay on the 13th, following the Korea versus Czech Republic match on the 12th.

On the 13th, KBS2 carried a live broadcast of the Group D first match between the United States and Paraguay, held at LA Stadium in the United States, with caster Lee Jae-hoo and commentators Kim Shin-wook and Park Chan-ha.

Although it was an early weekend match involving another country, the lavish opening ceremony performance featuring Lisa of BLACKPINK alongside Anitta (Brazil) and Rema (Nigeria), and the host United States 4-1 rout, delivered a nationwide rating of 2.4% (based on Nielsen Korea). The 20 to 49 metropolitan area rating was also 0.6%, demonstrating strong interest in the World Cup among core viewers.

Another host nation, Canada, played to a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

KBS coverage of the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup continues with a Group F showdown between the Netherlands and Japan at 5 a.m. on the 15th at Dallas Stadium in the United States. The on-site live broadcast of the Netherlands versus Japan will be available from 4:10 a.m. on the 15th with commentator Lee Young-pyo and caster Nam Hyun-jong.