North Korean Soccer Team Publicly Shamed After World Cup Failure
Disgraceful Performance Raises Concerns About Treatment of Athletes
Team Investigated for Possible Punishment
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — FIFA, the governing body of world soccer, is investigating allegations that the North Korean national team faced punishment from government officials after losing all three of its matches at this year's World Cup.
According to reports, the team and its coach were publicly shamed upon their return home. The allegations have raised concerns about the treatment of athletes in North Korea, where dissent is not tolerated and the government has a history of using sports as a propaganda tool.
North Korea's first match in the 2010 World Cup was not broadcast by the country's leaders, who were reportedly afraid of embarrassment. However, the team put on a spirited performance against the South American supergiants Brazil, losing just 2-1.
The second match, against Portugal, was televised only for North Korea to suffer a humiliating 7-0 defeat. In the team's final match, against Ivory Coast, they were easily beaten 3-0.
FIFA has not yet released any details of its investigation, but a spokesman said the organization is "aware of the allegations" and is taking them "very seriously."
North Korea's dismal performance at the World Cup has raised questions about the future of soccer in the country. The team has not qualified for the World Cup since 2010, and it is unclear whether it will be able to qualify again in the near future.
Comments