There was no sign of the tense demeanor seen at Incheon Airport. The much-talked-about North Korean Naegohyang women's soccer team players showed bright smiles on Korean soil.
Naegohyang women's soccer team will face Suwon FC Women in the 2025-2026 AFC Women's Champions League semifinal held at Suwon Sports Complex on the 20th.
On the day before the decisive match, Naegohyang women's soccer team held an official training session on the 19th at the Suwon World Cup Stadium practice field.
When the squad entered the country through Incheon Airport on the 17th, they appeared very tense. Players in suits moved quickly toward their accommodations, eyes forward. No player was sightseeing at Incheon Airport.
After spending two days in Korea, the North Korean squad brightened noticeably. During training they joked with one another and smiled, creating a convivial atmosphere. Notably, the players caught attention by wearing U.S.-made Nike soccer shoes.
At the official press conference, Naegohyang women's soccer team coach Ri Yu-il said, "We will do our best to achieve good results." He was reserved regarding the joint cheering squad, saying, "We will not concern ourselves with anything other than soccer."
[OSEN]