September 30, 2023
News

North Korea kicks off Asian Games campaign with first soccer match in four years

Return to competition comes as the country eases border controls and could pave way for joining World Cup qualifiers

North Korea kicked off its Asian Games campaign with a men’s soccer match against Chinese Taipei, marking the nation’s return to competitive international soccer after four years away.

The match comes as the DPRK has eased pandemic border controls to allow its citizens to enter the country, potentially paving the way for the country to join more international competitions like the Olympics that have provided opportunities for engagement in the past.