how did north korea get in the 2010 world cup

North Korea got into the 2010 World Cup by qualifying through the Asian Football Confederation’s final round, then earning a crucial 0-0 draw away to Saudi Arabia on June 17, 2009. That result was enough to book their place in South Africa, their first World Cup appearance since 1966.

How it happened

• North Korea played in Asia’s long qualifying process, not through a wildcard or invitation.
• The decisive result was the draw against Saudi Arabia, which gave them enough points to qualify.
• It was a big surprise at the time because North Korea was one of the lowest-ranked teams in the tournament field.

Why it mattered

North Korea’s qualification was notable because it ended a 44-year World Cup absence. They went on to reach the 2010 finals in South Africa, though they did not advance past the group stage.

TL;DR

North Korea qualified the normal way through Asian qualifying, clinching the spot with a 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia in 2009.