South Korea to Fund Fans for North Korean Soccer Club — Chosun
The South Korean government has officially announced its intention to fund fan groups that will support the North Korean women's soccer club "Nekohyang."
Chosun reports on this.
300 million won, equivalent to approximately $200,000, will be allocated to attract supporters for the North Korean team.
The Ministry of Unification of the Republic of Korea made this decision after reviewing numerous requests from civil society organizations.
The authorities decided to provide financial assistance from the South-North Cooperation and Exchange Fund to ensure a festive atmosphere at the stadium.
According to official data, about 2,500 people are expected to participate in the cheering.
The relevant ministry emphasized: “We received several requests from civil society organizations wishing to support the North Korean soccer team. It was decided to provide 300 million won to the organizations that will cheer for them.”
The sporting event will take place on May 20, 2026, as part of the semifinals of the Asian Football Confederation Women’s Champions League.
The local team “Suwon” will face off against the visitors from Pyongyang—the “Nekohyang” club—on the field, which will be a landmark event for the region.
The team from the DPRK is expected to arrive at Incheon International Airport as early as May 17, 2026.
This visit is of particular significance, as it will mark the first appearance of North Korean athletes on South Korean soil in the past seven years.
The South Korean side is confident that this step will contribute to a significant improvement in mutual understanding between Seoul and Pyongyang.
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