Two members of North Korea’s delegation to the 2026 Asian Games in Japan are reportedly seeking asylum and have indicated that they do not intend to return home.
The report, first published by South Korea’s Monthly Chosun magazine, said the two individuals were part of North Korea’s roughly 180-member delegation attending the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, which opened on Sept. 19.
According to the report, the two expressed a preference to seek asylum in Japan rather than South Korea. Their identities, positions and specific roles within the North Korean delegation have not been disclosed.
The report attributed the information to a source identified as an official from Japan’s Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office. It also said the information was obtained through a source connected to Japan’s intelligence apparatus and linked to Chongryon, the pro-Pyongyang General Association of Korean Residents in Japan.
However, the reported asylum request has not been independently confirmed, and it remains unclear whether the two individuals have formally applied for asylum or whether they will ultimately defect. Reuters reported that it was unable to obtain immediate comment from the Japanese government.
North Korea sent athletes and officials to the Asian Games, including Sports Minister Kim Il-guk. The country’s participation in the Games has drawn particular attention because the delegation’s presence in Japan represents a rare large-scale visit by North Koreans to the country.
Japan generally restricts the entry of North Korean nationals under its sanctions regime, although special arrangements were made for participation in the Asian Games.
If the report is confirmed, any decision by members of the delegation to remain in Japan could create a sensitive diplomatic issue for Tokyo and Pyongyang. For now, however, the reported asylum bid remains unconfirmed, with the identities of the individuals and their next steps undisclosed.
