Asian Games open in Japan after anthem mix-up, logistical chaos and record athlete numbers
The 20th Asian Games opened in Nagoya, Japan, on Saturday with a glittering ceremony of dance and fireworks, capping a troubled buildup marred by logistical issues and early competitions.
Organizers scrambled to accommodate 17,000 participants—more than the Olympics—without a traditional athletes’ village, housing competitors in temporary container-style huts, hotels, and the Costa Serena cruise ship. Problems persisted as a record deluge flooded parts of Nagoya last week, and a tropical storm threatened further disruption. Some athletes were stranded at the airport due to missing transport, while teams complained about the quality of the huts, including beds being too short.
In a latest mishap, North Korea’s national anthem was played for [South Korea’s](en.wikipedia.org) men’s hockey team on Friday. “This is a really serious problem,” said South Korea coach Min Tae-seok. Organizers later offered “deepest apologies” for the error .
On Saturday, India replaced shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor as flag-bearer after his ceremonial kit was lost in transit, with kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat stepping in, Indian media reported.
The Games, running until Oct. 4, feature 43 sports, including debuts for eSports, breakdancing, BMX cycling, padel, and MMA. Competition in basketball and soccer began before the opening ceremony, with the first gold medal set to be awarded Sunday in the men’s individual triathlon . Emperor Naruhito officially declared the Games open at Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium, with Olympic Council of Asia President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani and IOC President Kirsty Coventry in attendance .
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Terribly sorry: Wrong Korean anthem played at Asian Games hockey The South Korean mens hockey team were left bemused before their Asian Games match against Bangladesh on Friday when North Koreas national anthem was played instead of their own. Lined up before the match, the South Korean players looked around in confusion as the anthem rang out at Green Stadium in Gifu, Japan. The stadium […]
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japantoday · about 2 hours ago
🏅 The 20th Asian Games opened in Japan on Saturday with a message of unity following a troubled build-up to the multi-sport spectacular that has more athletes than the Olympics. ➡️ u.afp.com/Sjrz
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🇯🇵 🇰🇷 Asian Games organisers offered "deepest apologies" on Saturday for playing the North Korean national anthem for the South Korean mens hockey team. ➡️ u.afp.com/SjHi
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