Japan Deliberates North Korean Participation in 2024 Asian Games

Japan is weighing the possibility of allowing North Korean athletes to compete in the 2024 Asian Games in Nagoya, following the North's expressed interest, according to a statement from the Japanese government on Thursday.

Despite a ban on North Korean citizens since 2016 due to nuclear and ballistic missile concerns, athletes have been permitted entry for international competitions. Kyodo News reports that North Korea intends to send approximately 150 athletes for 17 events in the Games, from September 19 to October 4 next year.

Yoshimasa Hayashi, Japan's chief cabinet secretary, confirmed that the organizing committee is consulting with various sports ministries regarding this participation. North Korea previously secured 11 gold medals at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.

(With inputs from agencies.)