The 2024-2025 English Premier League season has commenced on North Korean state television, offering a rare glimpse of international sports to the nation. However, this coverage is limited and delayed by several months. Despite these constraints, it represents one of the few moments when state TV does not serve as a vehicle for propaganda. The selection of games and teams reflects political considerations, particularly regarding South Korean involvement. This unique broadcasting pattern could potentially serve as a tool for soft diplomacy, bridging cultural divides through sports.

Delayed Premier League Broadcasts: A Reflection of Media Control

While Premier League matches are now airing in North Korea, they are often broadcast with significant delays. Only a fraction of the games are shown, and those that do make it to air are frequently repeated. This approach contrasts sharply with the rapid coverage of major tournaments like the World Cup, where games were aired within days or even hours of their occurrence. The delay may be attributed to challenges in securing broadcasting rights or a lower priority placed on European football compared to national sporting events.

The 2023-2024 Premier League season saw only 21 out of 380 games televised, with an average delay of several months. For instance, the first match between Burnley and Manchester City was shown 47 days after it was played. By the end of the year, this delay had grown to three months. Manchester City was the most frequently featured team, appearing eight times, while other teams like Brentford and Spurs were entirely absent. This selective broadcasting suggests a deliberate choice influenced by political factors, such as avoiding teams with South Korean players.

Champions League and FIFA World Cup: Contrasting Broadcasting Patterns

In contrast to the Premier League, North Korean viewers did see the final stages of the UEFA Champions League, albeit in a disordered fashion. Matches from the round of 16 were aired between July and November, with some games being repeated multiple times. Political considerations again played a role, as certain teams like PSG, which fields a South Korean player, were omitted from broadcasts until they reached the semifinals.

The FIFA World Cup, however, received immediate and comprehensive coverage. Games were typically shown within a day or two of their occurrence, with some matches airing on the same day. This swift turnaround demonstrates that KCTV possesses the technical capability to deliver timely sports content. The stark difference in handling these events highlights the strategic importance of certain tournaments over others. For instance, North Korea’s Under-20 Women’s World Cup victory was broadcast just 13.5 hours after the match, showcasing the nation’s achievements and generating national pride.