North Korean Women's Football Team Arrives in South Korea for Historic Match

North Korea's women's football team has arrived at Incheon International Airport, marking their first visit to the South for competition since 2018. This visit heralds the first women's football match between teams from the two Koreas, fostering hopes for inter-Korean sports exchange.

Thu May 21 2026

North Korean Women's Football Team Arrives at Incheon International Airport

The North Korean women's football team arrived quietly at Incheon International Airport. This visit marks the first time North Korean footballers have traveled to the South for competition since 2018. After their arrival, the team boarded a dedicated bus to head to the stadium. This visit is expected to positively influence inter-Korean relations beyond just the sporting event.

Historic First Match Between North and South Korean Women's Teams

This visit is particularly significant as it marks the first women's football match between teams from the two Koreas. In Suwon, thousands of fans braved heavy rain to support both teams. Specifically, Suwon FC Women and Pyongyang's Naegohyang Women's Football Club will compete in the semifinals of the AFC Women's Champions League. Cheong Wooksik, Director of Peace Network, expressed his hope that both teams would play a wonderful match without injuries. He also noted that about 200 non-governmental organizations in South Korea have formed a joint cheering squad to support both teams, marking a rare moment of shared applause between two countries still technically at war.