By Nam Hyun-woo





INCHEON ― Etiquette is a pivotal part of sports.

By this standard, the ongoing Asian Games leave a lot to be desired.

At the kickoff of the Korea-Japan quarterfinal soccer match, few Korean fans bothered to stand up when the opposing team's national anthem was played.

A plea was repeatedly made through the public announcement system for the fans to stand up when the anthems were played at Munhak Stadium.

The fans' behavior reflected the bitter memories of Japan's 36-year occupation, but it is worth thinking what effects the Korean fans' standing up in respect could have had on their image as the hosts of the Games.

It also marked a contrast to a group of Japanese fans remaining on their feet while the Korean national anthem was played after theirs was over.

"It is disrespectful to stay seated while other countries' anthem is played," said Na Kyung-im, a fan from Incheon. "If some foreigners sit and do that while Korea's anthem is being played, do you think that makes you feel good?"

The organizers appear to be partially to blame because some fans were ignorant of the "rule of respect."

"I knew I have to stand up for the Korean national anthem. But I didn't know I have to do the same when other countries' national anthems are played," said a spectator, on condition that his name be not used.

Making matters worse were some fans munching on snacks and shouting into their smartphones while the anthems were played.

Similar instances of ignorance were also observed during tennis matches.

On Friday, when the round of 16 men's singles tennis competition was held at the Yeorumul Tennis Courts, some fans misbehaved.

Some went for snacks or tried to find their seats when the ball was in play.

Mobile phones constantly rang and strident cheering continued, forcing the umpire to ask for the spectators' silence. .

On Sunday, it got better.

Banners asking silence were posted around the venue and organizers also blocked fans from entering the court area when players were in action. Fans appeared to gladly follow the instruction.