Max Changmin Hosts World Cup Pre-Show

Changmin of TVXQ, a well-known soccer enthusiast in the entertainment industry, appeared on the 2026 North, Central America World Cup Pre-Show for the Czech Republic Match and predicted a 1-0 victory for Korea. Changmin engaged in a soccer talk session with former 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup star Seol Ki-hyeon, and players Kim Young-gwon and Kim Jin-su, heating up the pre-game atmosphere.

Regarding his prediction for the Czech Republic match, Changmin stated, "With the fan's wish to win no matter what, I predict a 1-0 score," cheering on the national team for their first win. When asked about his 'most memorable World Cup goal for Korea,' he humorously replied, acknowledging Seol Ki-hyeon, "​Director Seol Ki-hyeon's goal is truly memorable... but I can't forget Hwang Hee-chan's miraculous goal against Portugal in the 2022 Qatar World Cup," eliciting laughter. He recalled the 1998 France World Cup as the first World Cup he watched and mentioned his fondness for players Lee Dong-gook and Ahn Jung-hwan, before adding that he also liked Director Seol Ki-hyeon, causing the room to erupt in laughter.

Honest stories from the former national team panelists were also revealed. Kim Young-gwon, referring to his winning goal against Germany in the 2018 Russia World Cup, joked, "My goal was the winning goal, but Son Heung-min, who scored an additional goal, got more spotlight," and frankly shared the pressure he felt as a national team player.

Predictions for the Czech Republic match were mixed. Director Seol Ki-hyeon predicted a 1-0 victory, stating, "Korea's advantage in adapting to high altitudes is prominent." Kim Jin-su predicted a 2-0 win, saying, "​Because I want them to win no matter what." Kim Young-gwon predicted a 2-1 victory, commenting, "​Czech Republic's set pieces are strong, so I think they'll concede about one goal."

Lee Kyung-kyu, reporting live from Mexico, conveyed the passionate atmosphere, saying, "I've attended the World Cup in person every time, but this is my first time standing on the pitch like this. I've run towards this day," and predicted that Korea would go as far as possible, beyond the Round of 32 and Round of 16.