Asian Games organisers apologise after playing North Korean anthem for South Korea

Organisers of the Asian Games in Japan have apologised after the North Korean national anthem was mistakenly played for South Korea’s men’s hockey team.

South Korea had just defeated Bangladesh 5-0 when the incorrect anthem was played during the ceremony.

As reported by BBC Sport on Friday, the South Korean players appeared confused as the North Korean anthem sounded inside the stadium.

According to South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency, Bangladesh’s national anthem was played next before South Korea’s correct anthem was finally broadcast.

A stadium announcer later apologised for the mistake.

South Korea coach Min Tae-seok described the incident as a serious error.

“When we protested, they said, ‘We’re sorry. It wasn’t that it wasn’t prepared; there was a mistake on the part of those responsible for playing it,’” he said.

“But this is something that simply should never happen.”

The incident comes as organisers face other complaints over preparations for the Games, which officially open on Saturday.

A member of South Korea’s basketball team posted a video showing a leaking pipe and water covering the floor of his room, accompanied by the message, “Please help me.”

Some teams have also reportedly faced delays after arriving in Japan, with some stranded at the airport for as long as six hours.

Field hockey began on Friday and will continue until 3 October.

Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.

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