North Korean athletes are set to step onto South Korean soil for the first time in eight years, raising hopes that sports could again help ease bilateral tensions even as Pyongyang continues to define Seoul as a hostile state.
Naegohyang Women’s FC of North Korea have confirmed their participation in the 2025–2026 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s Champions League (AWCL).
“We have been informed by the AFC that Naegohyang Women’s FC have expressed their intention to participate in the tournament to be held in South Korea,” the Korea Football Association (KFA) said in a statement.
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“We will proceed with the necessary government approval procedures for the team’s visit.”
A KFA official said the association would work closely with the South Korean government to ensure the team’s safety and welfare during their stay.
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“If they successfully advance to the finals, they will remain until the final match, which will also take place in this country,” she said.