Organisers apologize after North Korean anthem played for South Korean team at Asian Games

Organisers of the Asian Games in Japan have issued an apology after the North Korean national anthem was mistakenly played for the South Korean men’s hockey team during a competition ceremony. The error occurred during the opening of the South Korea‑Japan match, where the anthem intended to honor the South Korean squad was incorrectly selected from the event’s music library, prompting immediate confusion among athletes and spectators.

The Games’ organizing committee said the mistake was “unacceptable” and attributed it to a technical oversight, promising a review of protocols to prevent similar incidents. South Korean officials expressed disappointment but accepted the apology, emphasizing the importance of respecting national symbols in international sport. The committee reaffirmed its commitment to accurate representation of all participating nations as the Games continue.