Seoul: The unification ministry announced it has spent 235 million won to support civic groups cheering for the North Korean women's football team during their May matches, as well as for event preparations.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the ministry revealed this expenditure during a National Assembly briefing. The funds were drawn from the Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund, highlighting the event's role in enhancing understanding between North and South Korea. Out of the 320 million won initially approved, 235 million won was utilized, with 149 million won specifically supporting civic groups' cheering efforts.

On May 20, the Pyongyang-based Naegohyang Women's FC competed against Suwon FC Women in the AFC Women's Champions League semifinals in Suwon, marking the first visit by a North Korean sports team to South Korea in over seven years. Naegohyang's victory over their South Korean counterparts with a score of 2-1 propelled them to win the tournament by defeating Japan's Tokyo Verdy Beleza 1-0 in the final on May 23.

The detailed spending of the 319 million won allocation included 25.2 million won for tickets, 59.1 million won for cheering supplies and snacks, 64.4 million won for the general operation of cheering squads, 55.9 million won for event infrastructure such as electronic bulletin boards, and 28.6 million won for security support. The ministry confirmed the final spending total as 235 million won after a thorough review of the records.

The Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund Act supports such cross-border events aimed at promoting exchange and cooperation between the two Koreas.