JTBC issued an official apology after mistakenly broadcasting a Japanese flag graphic during its live coverage of a women’s curling match between South Korea and Japan.
On February 16, JTBC posted a statement on its official website addressing the incident. The network explained, “At approximately 11:23 p.m. on February 15, during a live curling broadcast, a Japanese national flag graphic was briefly exposed during a commercial break.”
The broadcaster continued, “We sincerely apologize for causing discomfort to our viewers due to production staff negligence,” adding, “We will strengthen our inspection and management processes to ensure that the same mistake does not happen again.”
On February 15, JTBC aired a live broadcast of the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics women’s curling round robin match 5, held in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. The match featured a highly anticipated showdown between South Korea and Japan.
The controversial moment occurred after the conclusion of the fifth end, during a commercial break. A Japanese flag graphic appeared in the center of the screen for approximately 10 seconds. The image was unrelated to the advertisement being aired at the time.
JTBC immediately addressed the issue on air. Caster Sung Seung Hyun stated just before the sixth end began, “An unexpected graphic was shown during the commercial break. It was not something that should normally be broadcast. We ask for your understanding.”
Despite the immediate apology, viewers reacted strongly. Many criticized the timing of the incident, as the match carried significant implications for a semifinal berth. Posts pointing out the broadcast mistake quickly spread across online communities and social media platforms.
Meanwhile, South Korea defeated Japan 7–5 in the match. The national team, consisting of Kim Eun Ji, Kim Min Ji, Kim Su Ji, Seol Ye Eun, and Seol Ye Ji, climbed to fourth place in the standings, increasing their chances of advancing to the semifinals.
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