A historic achievement for North Korean football has captured global attention after Naegohyang Women's FC became the first club from the country to win the AFC Women's Champions League. The victory has gained even greater visibility following the circulation of a viral video showing Kim Jong Un celebrating alongside the players.
The footage shows the North Korean leader smiling as he congratulates members of the club, while several players appear visibly emotional after securing one of the biggest achievements in the country's sporting history. The moment quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing reactions from football fans worldwide.
Naegohyang scripts Asian football history
According to NDTV, Naegohyang Women's FC secured the continental crown with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Tokyo Verdy Beleza in the final held in Suwon, South Korea.
Captain Kim Kyong Yong scored the decisive goal just before halftime, helping her side overcome the Japanese club and lift the trophy. The triumph marked a remarkable turnaround after Naegohyang had suffered a heavy defeat to the same opponents earlier in the tournament.
Founded in 2012, the club, whose name translates to "My Hometown," has now secured a place in Asian football history while further enhancing North Korea's reputation in women's football, a sport where the country has traditionally enjoyed considerable success.
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Emotional scenes amid rare visit to South Korea
According to NDTV, the tournament carried added significance because it marked the first visit by a North Korean sports team to South Korea in eight years. Relations between the two neighbours remain strained, making the team's participation notable beyond football.
Following the final whistle, the players celebrated by displaying the North Korean national flag around the stadium. The scenes were particularly striking given the political sensitivities that often surround symbols associated with North Korea in the South.
The club's coach, Ri Yu Il, thanked Kim Jong Un for his support and described the achievement as an emotional milestone. He also expressed excitement about competing against the world's best clubs in future international tournaments.
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Global stage awaits North Korean champions
According to NDTV, the AFC Women's Champions League victory has earned Naegohyang qualification for the upcoming FIFA Women's Champions Cup, where continental champions from around the world will compete.
The tournament's final stages are scheduled to take place in Miami, providing the North Korean side with a rare opportunity to test itself against elite clubs from other continents.
Even Lee Jae Myung publicly congratulated the club following its victory, praising both the players and the supporters who attended the match in Suwon.
