North Korean Soccer Star Returns to International Play
Zainichi Korean Professional Footballer Chong Tese Makes Comeback
After three years' absence, North Korean striker Han re-emerges in World Cup qualifiers
When the North Korean men's soccer team took the field for two 2026 World Cup qualifying matches in June 2023, one player stood out: WEB Jong Tae-se, also known as Chong Tese. A former Zainichi Korean professional footballer who played as a forward, Chong had been missing from world soccer for more than three years.
Chong's return to the North Korean team is a major coup for the country. He is one of the most experienced and successful players in North Korean history, having scored 24 goals in 69 appearances for the national team. He has also played professionally in Germany, Japan, and South Korea.
Chong's return is a sign that North Korea is serious about qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. The team has not qualified for the tournament since 2010, and Chong's experience and leadership will be invaluable in helping the team achieve its goal.
Chong's return to international play has been met with mixed reactions. Some fans are excited to see him back on the pitch, while others are concerned that he is too old to be effective at the international level. Only time will tell whether Chong can help North Korea qualify for the World Cup, but his return is a major boost for the team.
Comments