==-Gifu, Japan: An anthem mix-up created an unusual moment at the 2026 Asian Games after organisers mistakenly played North Korea’s national anthem before a men’s hockey match involving South Korea.
The incident occurred ahead of the match between South Korea and Bangladesh in Gifu.
Instead of South Korea’s national anthem, organisers played the anthem of North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
South Korean players appeared surprised as the anthem began playing inside the stadium.
The stadium announcer subsequently apologised and acknowledged the error before the match proceeded.
The mistake carried particular sensitivity because of the long-standing political tensions between North and South Korea.
Despite the unusual start, South Korea quickly shifted its focus to the match itself, defeating Bangladesh 5–0.
The incident has added to a series of organisational issues surrounding the opening days of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.
Organisers have already faced scrutiny over accommodation arrangements, transportation and other logistical matters involving participating delegations.
The anthem error, however, was particularly notable because national anthems form an important part of international sporting ceremonies.
For South Korea, the focus now turns back to its Asian Games campaign, while organisers will be expected to prevent similar protocol errors during the remainder of the competition.
BiGG Sports News
Sports. Beyond the Score.
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