It means both group winners South Korea, who co-hosted the World Cup with Japan in 2002, and neighbors North Korea will play in the 2010 showpiece in South Africa.

CNN: North Korea qualifies for 2010 World Cup

In 2002, Japan will co-host with South Korea the football World Cup.

CNN: HARD LANDING

Last year, Japan and South Korea became the first countries to co-host the World Cup finals, but after the tournament Blatter said Fifa would discourage joint bids in the future.

BBC: By Durosimi Thomas

Bonfrere said he was also looking forward to the qualifying matches for the 2002 World Cup tournament, which will be co-hosted by Japan and South Korea.

BBC: Nigerian coach sets sights on Sydney

In 2002 the World Cup visited Asia for the first time, co-hosted by Japan and South Korea.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Qatar was the surprise winner of the race to host the 2022 World Cup, beating Australia, Japan, South Korea and the United States when the 22-man Fifa executive committee voted in their favour in Zurich on 2 December.

BBC: Fifa boss Sepp Blatter sparks Qatar gay controversy