North Korean women's football team arrives for AFC Champions League, vows focus on game

The return of the North Korean women's football team, Naegohyang, to South Korea after a 12-year absence is a significant event, transcending mere club competition to become a symbol of inter-Korean sports exchange. Hankyoreh, as a publication committed to inter-Korean understanding and peace, views this visit with keen interest, recognizing the potential for dialogue and connection through sport.

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We came here strictly to play a game. The issue of the cheering squad is not something for the coach or the team players to concern ourselves with. We will only focus on tomorrow's game and future games.

While the team, represented by coach Ri Yu-il and player Kim Kyong-yong, maintains a stoic and focused demeanor, stating their sole purpose is to compete, the enthusiasm from South Korean civil society is palpable. The formation of a 3,000-strong joint cheering squad, supported by various inter-Korean cooperation organizations and even government funding, highlights the deep desire for engagement and reconciliation on this side of the border.

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We came here strictly to play a game. We will only focus on tomorrow's game and future games.

The team's performance in the AFC Women's Champions League is not just about winning; it's about the shared experience on the field. Naegohyang's previous 3-0 victory over Suwon FC in the group stage underscores their strength and tactical prowess, making the semi-final clash a highly anticipated rematch. From our perspective at Hankyoreh, this match represents an opportunity to showcase the talent and dedication of North Korean athletes while fostering a sense of shared identity and common ground, even amidst the political complexities.

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To repay the trust and expectations of our people, parents, and siblings, we will do our best.

It is noteworthy how Western media might focus on the political implications or the rarity of such an event. However, for us, the story is also about the athletes themselves, their aspirations, and the human element of sport that can bridge divides. The players' commitment to their fans and country, as expressed by Kim Kyong-yong, resonates deeply, reminding us of the unifying power of sports and the hopes it carries for a more connected Korean peninsula.

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The atmosphere is very good. To repay the trust and expectations of our people, parents, and siblings, we will do our best.