Three Incorrect National Anthems Played at Japan’s Asian Para Games

The Iranian national anthem was mistakenly played for athletes representing Taiwan and Mongolia, prompting Nagoya’s mayor to apologise.

Three instances of incorrect national anthems were broadcast during this week’s Asian Para Games in Nagoya, Japan, prompting the mayor to issue an apology.

Mayor Ichiro Hirosawa apologized on Wednesday for the latest error, which occurred despite assurances that steps would be taken to prevent such mistakes, including ensuring the correct anthems are played.

The mayor said at a press conference, “These incidents occurred during the Asian Games and were examined based on lessons learned; the recurrence is simply unacceptable.”

The Asian Para Games is being held in central Nagoya through Saturday, with approximately 4,000 athletes and officials competing in 18 sports.

On Monday, a Taiwanese competitor won the men’s para taekwondo event, but the Iranian anthem was played in full, according to officials at the mayor’s news conference.

Officials acknowledged the mistake after the ceremony.

Later that same day, the Iranian anthem was played again during the women’s para taekwondo ceremony while a Mongolian athlete received a gold medal, as reported by the city.

The error was halted when the Mongolian delegation identified the mistake.

Organisers then performed the correct Mongolian anthem after the delegation supplied the appropriate audio file, officials said.

Earlier on Monday, officials mistakenly broadcast the South Korean anthem for about five seconds instead of the Chinese anthem before a sitting volleyball match involving China and Iran.

The mayor expressed regret, stating, “It is unacceptable and painful; I am deeply sorry. The tournament has otherwise proceeded smoothly.”

The earlier Asian Games, which ended in early October, attracted significant criticism over issues such as insufficient athlete accommodations and repeated errors in playing national anthems.

On September 18, organizers played North Korea’s national anthem for the South Korean hockey team.

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