Athletic Diplomacy: Celebrating Chang Ung's Legacy

Chang Ung, a former North Korean IOC member known for fostering sports exchanges between North and South Korea, passed away at 87. His notable achievements include organizing joint Korean marches at the Olympics and promoting sports diplomacy. His efforts highlighted the ability of sports to bridge divides.

Chang Ung, the pioneering North Korean member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has passed away at age 87, leaving behind a legacy of sports diplomacy and inter-Korean cooperation. The IOC confirmed his death on Sunday with great sadness, choosing to honor him by flying the Olympic flag at half-mast in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Born in 1938, Chang was initially a basketball player who captained North Korea's national team before transitioning to athletics administration. Rising to prominent roles such as vice sports minister and vice chairman of North Korea's national Olympic Committee, Chang was elected to the IOC in 1996. He played an instrumental role in fostering sports exchanges, most notably orchestrating the united march of North and South Korean athletes under a 'unification flag' at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

This march marked the beginning of several joint participations in international sports arenas, including the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics. Despite recent political tensions stalling sports exchanges, Chang's contributions remain pivotal. IOC President Kirsty Coventry praised his work, acknowledging sports as a tool for bridge-building and hope. Chang was last mentioned in 2023 when he was awarded the Olympic Order for his extraordinary contributions to the Olympics.

(With inputs from agencies.)