The IOC is trying to calm concern about the Pyeongchang Games, but some nations are concerned over tensions on the peninsula.
South Korean Olympic officials said they were pleased after a North Korean figure skating pair became the nation’s first athletes to qualify for the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, hoping it might help improve strained relations between the countries.
North Korea won its first berth to the Pyeongchang Games next February after figure skaters Ryom Tae Ok and Kim Ju Sik finished sixth in the pairs event at the Nebelhorn Trophy in Germany on Friday.
Tension has been rising recently due to North Korea’s nuclear test and multiple missile launches that also triggered an escalating war of words between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and U. S. President Donald Trump.
South Korea has been hoping North Korea takes part in the Games.
Sung Baikyou of Pyeongchang’s organizing committee said Saturday the achievement by North Korean skaters could make it easier to persuade the North to participate.
“It widens the room for more talks regarding North Korea’s potential Olympic participation, including inviting its organized cheering groups,” which Pyongyang frequently sends to international events to support its athletes, Sung said.
