We oppose Kim Jong Un’s Pyongyang Olympics,” they chanted referring to the North Korean capital. South Korea’s government sees North Korea’s participation in the Games — both in sporting events and cultural exchanges — as a way to calm tensions caused by Pyongyang’s recent nuclear and missile tests and war of words with the United States. The current mood of reconciliation between the Koreas flared after North Korea’s Kim abruptly expressed his willingness to improve ties and send a delegation to the Olympics during his annual New Year’s address. Outside critics have dismissed Kim’s overture as a tactic to use improved ties with Seoul to weaken U.S.-led international sanctions over North Korea’s advancing nuclear and missile programs. The art troupe, which comprises orchestra members, singers and dancers, is part of North Korea’s Olympic delegation that also includes athletes, officials, journalists and a taekwondo demonstration team.

Source: Hindustan Times January 22, 2018 04:07 UTC