North Korea plans minimal representation at the Winter Olympics, likely featuring two figure skaters. The country excels in sports like weightlifting, with 54 Olympic medals. Their women’s football team ranks 11th globally and has had recent successes. Taekwondo remains another stronghold, with substantial achievements noted in international events and extensive investment in athletic programs.
Amid the political attention surrounding the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, North Korea’s participation is expected to revolve around a small contingent of two figure skaters. Despite this, North Korea has notable achievements in various sports, particularly in weightlifting, where they have secured 54 Olympic medals, outperforming larger nations such as India and Nigeria.
At the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio, North Korea won seven medals, including two golds, ranking them reasonably high among competing countries. In football, the women’s team holds an 11th place FIFA ranking and recently won the East Asia Football Federation Championship, following their triumph at the under-20 World Cup in 2016.
Although the men’s football team has only qualified for two World Cups and is ranked 126th, their 1966 quarterfinal appearance remains a highlight, alongside a competitive showing against Brazil in 2010. North Korea’s national teams are also active in fostering young talent through dedicated sports schools established by the government.
Taekwondo is a sport where North Korea exhibits dominance, especially in the version regulated by the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF). In a recent competition, North Korean athletes achieved a significant medal haul, winning 22 golds, emphasizing the country’s commitment to this sport through investment in facilities and training.
Despite economic hardships, top-level athletes in North Korea train in modern facilities, demonstrating a stark contrast to the living conditions of the general population. Participation in sports is promoted by organized groups such as the military and state unions. Popular sports include boxing and taekwondo, historically promoted for national defense.
North Korea, while limited in its representation at the Winter Olympics, displays notable prowess in various sports, particularly weightlifting and taekwondo. Their investment in athlete development and talent identification programs has resulted in impressive performances in international competitions. Despite facing economic challenges, sports hold a crucial role in North Korean society, contributing to national pride and unity.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
