North Korea will dispatch approximately 100 athletes to the Asian Games in Japan next month, participating in 14 different sports. A senior official stated the delegation’s purpose is to “bring joy to Marshal Kim Jong Un.” This marks a return to international sporting competitions after a suspension throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. North Korea previously rejoined the international sports arena at the Asian Games held in China. The move could signal a potential shift towards greater engagement with the outside world, although the primary motivation appears to be internal. Details regarding specific athletes and potential medal contenders have not yet been released. This participation follows a period of relative isolation for North Korean athletes.