North Korea reportedly paid 191,682 USD to
cover fees related to its delegation and athletes’ stay
during the 2014 Incheon Asian Games. This is the first time that the North has
paid to participate in an international event held in South Korea.
An official from the Ministry of
Unification said at a briefing on October 16th, “North
Korea has already settled their portion of the required expenses and we plan to
contribute 550 million KRW [520,000 USD] for the remainder.”
The North announced its decision to foot
part of the bill on October 3rd. Prior to this, the North made a “convenience plea” to South Korea in terms of
settling the account, but on the 3rd decided to revisit the issue and paid a
portion of the fees for its stay.
“The 191,682 USD covers fees incurred at
the athletes’ village and airport. North Korea also
paid the organizing committee for costs related to its media crew,” the
official stated. “During the 2002 Busan Asian
Games a number of private organizations provided the majority of the financial
support required for the North to participate in the competition. The North’s
decision to pay a portion of the fees is a first.”
Regarding the Ministry’s decision to pay the difference, the official said, “If we can contribute to fostering more positive relations between
the two Koreas, it is our stance to provide relevant support to the North. If
you consider the budget, it is not much different than the amount provided in
the past.”
