Seoul: In a significant step towards fostering inter-Korean relations, South and North Korea have agreed to field a joint women's hockey team for the 2018 Winter Olympic Games, which took place in South Korea's Pyeongchang from February 9 to 25. This decision marked a pivotal moment in the efforts to promote peace and cooperation on the Korean Peninsula.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the collaboration between the two Koreas in the sports arena paved the way for improved diplomatic relations, culminating in a historic summit between South Korean President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on April 27, 2018. This summit was followed by two more bilateral meetings in May and September of the same year, further solidifying the thawing of tensions between the two nations.

The joint team was seen as a symbol of hope and reconciliation, reflecting a shared desire for peace and unity amidst longstanding geopolitical challenges. The move was part of broader efforts to leverage sports diplomacy to bridge divides and foster dialogue, setting a precedent for future cooperation in various fields.