The government has again expressed negativity on the possibility of forming a combined team consisting of both South and North Korea for the 17th Asian Games that will open in Incheon in September.
 
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Unification Ministry said it is the government’s belief that forming a unified Korean team is inappropriate at the present time when considering current inter-Korean relations, the Korean people’s sentiment and preparations for the sports event.
 
In particular, the statement stressed that an earlier remark made by a Unification Ministry spokesman did not signify any changes in the government’s view. Earlier on Tuesday morning, a ministry spokesman said that the government could consult with the city of Incheon should the city request the formation of a single team.
 
New Incheon Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok had earlier suggested that he would extensively consider forming a joint South-North team during an interview with the media.