Olympics 2024: North Korea and South Korea athletes take Selfie in Paris - Fans concerned despite heartwarming visuals

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Although geopolitical issues have kept the South Korean and North Korean people afar from each other, the stage of Paris Olympics 2024 witnessed a moment to savour.

The North Korean and South Korean athletes took a selfie after a mixed table tennis event.

After competing in table tennis at the Paris Olympics, the athletes from both countries shared a special moment. They posed for a selfie together, joined by China's team, creating a viral image. This happened after they received their medals for the mixed doubles competition.

The North Korean duo, Kim Kum-yong and Ri Jong-sik, had an impressive run. As the No. 16 seed, they secured silver by defeating higher-ranked teams from Japan and Hong Kong. They faced top-ranked China in the final, who clinched the gold. This marked North Korea's return to the Olympics since Rio 2016, as they missed the Tokyo games due to the pandemic.

North Korea South Korea Selfie in Paris Olympics 2024

South Korea's team of Lim Jong-hoon and Shin Yu-bin didn't compete against North Korea. They were relegated to the bronze medal match after losing to China's Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha. This is South Korea's first table tennis medal since the London Games in 2012.

The selfie moment is celebrated as a human connection that transcends political borders. It highlighted the Olympic spirit of unity through sport. Despite the demilitarized zone dividing North and South Korea, their shared family ties and culture remain strong and the connection between the people is still intact.

Although the fans enjoyed the heartwarming visuals, there were immediate concerns expressed on social media. Many were afraid that the North Korean athletes would face consequences as they return back home.

A South Korean user was very worried about the North Korea players.

One accused the government for dividing the people of two countries.