North Korea's Soccer Team Returns to the International Stage
Squad Adjustments and Notable Players
Missing for Three Years, Han Kwang Song Returns
After a three-year absence, North Korean striker Han Kwang Song has returned to the national team. He made his reappearance in two recent World Cup qualifying matches.
In 2017, Han became the first North Korean to score in one of Europe's top five soccer leagues. He subsequently joined Italian giants Juventus in 2019.
Jong Tae-se: A North Korean in Europe
Jong Tae-se, also known as Chong Tese, is a former North Korean professional footballer who represented his country at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Jong is one of the few North Koreans to have played in Europe.
North Korea's Roster Changes
When North Korea's men's soccer team took to the field this month, observers noticed significant roster changes.
Eight players on the current squad are from Naegohyang, while seven are from 425.
North Korea's Return to International Competition
First Competitive Fixture Since 2019
North Korea has not played a competitive match since the 2022 World Cup Asia qualifiers in 2019.
Their last match was a 0-0 draw with Lebanon in November 2019.
North Korea has not participated in any major international sporting competition since the 2018 Asian Games, skipping the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Hosting Japan for World Cup Qualifier
North Korea's men's national football team will host Japan in Pyongyang for a 2026 World Cup qualifier on March 26, 2025.
This will be the first time North Korea has played a competitive match at home in over four years.
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