The 2026 Winter Olympics are Here! How to Watch Every Event Live
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are finally underway! Whether you are an expat living in South Korea or a traveler currently on the road, finding a reliable way to watch your favorite winter sports can be a challenge.
Local broadcasters often focus heavily on their own national athletes. If you want to watch full Ice Hockey matches, Alpine Skiing, or Curling games that aren’t being shown on local TV, you need to know where to look.
Here is a comprehensive guide to watching the games live, for free, from anywhere in the world.
1. For Expats in South Korea: JTBC Exclusive (No KBS/MBC/SBS) 🇰🇷
Important Update: For the first time in 62 years, the three major terrestrial networks (KBS, MBC, SBS) will not be broadcasting the Olympics. The broadcasting rights for the 2026 Winter Games in South Korea are held exclusively by JTBC.
If you turn on your TV to the usual channels, you won’t find the games. Here is where you need to tune in:
- TV Channels:
- JTBC: Broadcasting opening/closing ceremonies and major medal events (Short Track, Speed Skating).
- JTBC Golf & Sports / JTBC2: Airing other popular sports like Figure Skating, Curling, and Ice Hockey.
- Online Streaming:
- Naver Sports: The easiest online platform to watch Korean athletes.
Naver Link - JTBC Official Website/App (NOW): Live streaming available.
- Naver Sports: The easiest online platform to watch Korean athletes.
- Pros: High-quality coverage of Korean athletes.
- Cons: Since it is exclusive to a cable network group, coverage of non-Korean athletes or less popular sports might be limited compared to previous years. Commentary is in Korean only.
2. The Host Country Experience: RAI (Italy) 🇮🇹
Want to feel the electric atmosphere of the host nation? Watching the Italian broadcast offers the most authentic experience. Italian commentators are known for their passion!
- Platform: RaiPlay (Italy’s national broadcaster streaming service).
- How to Watch (VPN Required):
- Set your VPN location to Italy.
- Go to RaiPlay.it.
- Register for a free account (required) and click on the live channels (Rai 2, Rai Sport).
- Best For: Opening/Closing ceremonies and Alpine Skiing events.
3. Best English Coverage: CBC & BBC (VPN Required) ⭐
If you want comprehensive coverage of every sport with high-quality English commentary, these are the best free options available globally. Note: You will need a reliable VPN to access these if you are outside their respective countries.
A. CBC Gem (Canada) 🇨🇦 – Highly Recommended
Canada covers the Winter Olympics better than almost anyone. Their streaming platform is robust, free, and covers every single event.
- VPN Setting: Set location to Canada.
- Access: CBC Gem Olympics Page
- Why it’s great: Often requires no login (or a very simple free signup), excellent HD quality, and full replays.
B. BBC iPlayer (UK) 🇬🇧
The BBC offers fantastic curation and professional commentary.
- VPN Setting: Set location to UK.
- Access: BBC iPlayer
- Note: Requires a free account creation. You will need to enter a UK postcode (any random London postcode usually works).
C. 9Now (Australia) 🇦🇺
Another great English language option.
- VPN Setting: Set location to Australia.
- Access: 9Now
- Note: Requires a free account.
4. Paid / Official Options
If you prefer a premium experience without using VPNs (depending on your region), consider these:
- Discovery+ / Eurosport: Holds the rights for most of Europe. Paid subscription required, but offers ad-free, total coverage.
- Peacock (USA): NBC’s streaming service. Requires a US subscription and US IP address.
📅 Official Schedule & Real-Time Results
“When is the Ice Hockey final?” “What is the time difference?”
For the most accurate schedules converted to your local time zone, always check the official site.
👉 Official Milano Cortina 2026 Schedule & Results
💡 Time Zone Tip (for those in Korea)
Italy (CET) is 8 hours behind South Korea (KST).
- Morning events in Italy (10:00 AM) = 6:00 PM in Korea. (Perfect for evening viewing!)
- Evening events in Italy (8:00 PM) = 4:00 AM in Korea. (Get ready for some late nights!)
Enjoy the 2026 Winter Games, no matter where you are or who you are cheering for! 🎿⛸️