Asian Games organisers play North Korean anthem before South Korea hockey match

Officials at the Asian Games accidentally played the North Korean national anthem before South Korea's women's hockey match against Bangladesh, marking an unusual protocol breach at the major sporting event being held in Japan.

The incorrect anthem was broadcast ahead of the fixture, prompting swift action from organisers to address the mistake. The error was corrected before the match proceeded with the proper protocol.

The incident underscores the logistical complexity of coordinating ceremonies and protocols across numerous sporting events at the Asian Games, which features athletes from dozens of nations across the continent. Such mix-ups, while rare at major international competitions, can occur during the rapid succession of matches and opening ceremonies.

The Asian Games, one of Asia's premier multi-sport competitions, brings together thousands of athletes competing across dozens of disciplines. South Korea has historically been a strong performer at the Games, while organisers typically maintain rigorous standards for ceremonial procedures to ensure all nations are properly represented.