'We used to talk like sisters': Ji So-yun reflects on changed ties with NK players
Ji So-yun of Suwon FC Women, who is entering her 20th year as a member of South Korea's national team, expressed regret over the complete lack of communication with North Korean women's national team players, despite the two teams staying at the same hotel. "When I played at my first Asian Games in Doha in 2006, the North Korean players were like older sisters to me because I was the youngest. We…
Ji So-yun, a veteran member of South Korea's national women's soccer team, has reflected on the diminished ties with her North Korean counterparts. Despite sharing the same hotel during the 2006 Asian Games in Doha, Ji recalls the close relationship they once had, comparing the North Korean players to older sisters. At the time, communication was abundant and the players formed strong bonds, as they were all part of the same sport and language.
However, Ji notes a stark contrast in their interactions now. In the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, where the two teams are sharing accommodations, Ji has observed a significant shift in the North Korean players' demeanor. They appear more formal and unresponsive, even when Ji and her teammates initiate greetings. The change in relations between the two teams has been particularly evident at this year's Games, as they are co-located.
During meals, Ji can hear the North Korean players speaking, but the lack of reciprocation in their interactions leaves Ji yearning for the camaraderie they once shared.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
