People's Athlete (Korean: 인민체육인) is a North Korean honorary title awarded to sportspeople.[1][2] It was created in 1966. It is usually reserved to those who have won in the Olympic Games or have won a world championship, as it is the most prestigious award for North Korean sportspeople.[3]
The title is closely connected with the North Korea national football team. The title was instituted after their achievements in the 1966 FIFA World Cup. Victories in the FIFA World Cups are rewarded with the title, as well as the right to live in the capital Pyongyang, including to one's family members.[3][4] Because of this and since the women's football team has done better recently, the more experienced coaches prefer to work with them rather than with the men's football team.[4]
It was rumored in 2010 that football coach Kim Jong-hun's award was rescinded for losing a game against Portugal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup finals.[7]
Cho Dae-won became the first baduk (Go) player to receive the award in October 2013.[8]
As of 1984[update], a People's Athlete is paid a 200-won monthly wage. The sum is far greater than that of an ordinary office worker who was typically paid around 70 won.[9] As of December 2011[update], around 200 people have received the title during the 45 years that had passed since its establishment.[6] Whenever the title is conferred, the recipient also receives the Order of the National Flag, first class.[10]Overseas Koreans have received the award, too. For instance Hong Chang-su, Jong Tae-se and An Yong-hak are North Koreans living in Japan who have been named People's Athletes.[6]
