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

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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.

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

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

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

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A stadium announcer later apologised for the mistake.

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

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“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.

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

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

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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.”

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

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

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