The North Korean women's football team, Namyong, held a public training session in Suwon on Tuesday to prepare for the AFC Champions League semi-final [1, 2].
This event marks a rare sporting exchange between the two nations. It is the first time in 12 years that a North Korean women's team has conducted public training in South Korea [1].
During the session, the team and its coaching staff emphasized their commitment to the upcoming competition. A team spokesperson said, "We will focus only on the match" [1]. The focus on the pitch comes amid discussions regarding cheering squads and external support for the teams.
Coach Ri Yu-il addressed these external factors during the press conference. He said the issue of cheering squads is not a matter for him or his players to concern themselves with [1].
Suwon FC Women players also shared their perspectives on the opposition. Ji So-yeon, a key player for Suwon FC, said the North Korean athletes are rough and noted that they are capable of handling criticism [1, 2].
This appearance is the first time in eight years that North Korean players have participated in public training on South Korean soil [1]. The session serves as a final preparation phase before the semi-final clash, with both teams aiming to minimize distractions from the political or social atmosphere surrounding the match.
“"We will focus only on the match"”
The return of North Korean athletes for public training in South Korea after more than a decade highlights the unique role of sports in maintaining thin channels of communication between the two states. By explicitly distancing themselves from the 'cheering squad' controversy, the Namyong team is attempting to maintain a professional boundary and avoid the political friction that often accompanies inter-Korean athletic competitions.
