North Korea ends isolation to participate in Hangzhou Asian Games

North Korea had not participated at any sporting event since Covid-19 Pandemic.

The Asian Games 2023 will mark a significant milestone as North Korea re-enters the global sporting arena after more than three years of self-imposed isolation. With 191 athletes confirmed to compete, this event, set to commence on September 23 in Hangzhou, China, is poised to witness North Korea's resurgence in competitive sports, particularly in the realm of weightlifting where they have traditionally excelled.

The global COVID-19 pandemic had prompted North Korea to seal its borders tightly, leading to their absence from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. However, organizers have now officially affirmed their participation in the upcoming Asian Games. North Korean athletes will be part of a diverse array of disciplines, spanning athletics, gymnastics, basketball, football, boxing, and, notably, weightlifting.

Previously, North Korea had planned to break their isolation by participating in a weightlifting competition - Grand Prix in Cuba in June, which ultimately did not materialize. Their non-participation in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics resulted in a subsequent ban from the Beijing Winter Olympics 2022.

In recent months, North Korea has eased border restrictions slightly, enabling their athletes to engage in a taekwondo competition in Kazakhstan. The North Korean football team is scheduled to compete against Taiwan in their initial match at the Asian Games. Among the athletes representing North Korea, two prominent weightlifters, Ri Song Gum and Rim Un Sim, are notable, having clinched gold medals in weightlifting at the previous Asian Games.

Their participation adds anticipation to the competition, as they aim to replicate their past success on this international stage. To summarize, the return of North Korea to the Asian Games in 2023 symbolizes a significant step towards reintegration into the global sports community, offering the prospect of heightened competition and showcasing their prowess in various sporting disciplines.