Seoul: The unification ministry announced that it will allocate 300 million won (US$202,000) from government funds to support South Korean civic groups planning to cheer at an upcoming match featuring the North Korean women's football team.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the decision to provide financial assistance was made in response to several requests from civic groups. The funds, sourced from the Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund, aim to facilitate mutual understanding between South and North Korea. A ministry official emphasized the significance of the event and revealed that the funds will cover expenses such as ticket purchases, cheering supplies, and banner production.

The Naegohyang Women's FC from Pyongyang is scheduled to visit Suwon, approximately 30 kilometers south of Seoul, on May 20, to compete against Suwon FC Women in the semifinals of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women's Champions League. This marks the first visit by a North Korean sports team to South Korea in over seven years.

The ministry expects around 2,500 supporters to attend the match. Although cheering chants will primarily be determined by the civic groups, the government plans to provide guidelines to avoid sensitive terms during the event. This measure respects North Korea's stance on its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, as opposed to "North Korea."

The Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund Act, which promotes exchange and cooperation between the two Koreas, has been previously used for similar events, such as the 2018 Unification Basketball Game and the 2014 Incheon Asian Games, as mentioned by the official.

Additionally, the ministry anticipates approving entry for the 39 North Korean players and staff members within the week, with the squad expected to arrive at Incheon International Airport on May 17.