The Middle Eastern side, runners-up when hosts in 1996, went on to dominate the game after Hong's spotkick hit the bar but could not beat goalkeeper Ri Myong-Guk.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Latching on to a pass down the right from Elano but at a seemingly impossible angle trapped against the byeline, he produced a swerving screamer that bent in with goalkeeper Ri Myong-guk standing a fraction too far off his post.

BBC: Brazil 2-1 North Korea

The Elephants started with intent as Toure's beautiful pass set the surging Kader Keita free in the box only for goalkeeper Ri-Myong-Guk's outstretched legs to prevent a goal in the opening minute.

BBC: North Korea 0-3 Ivory Coast