Footballer Jong-woo gets 2-match ban for Olympic banner

A South Korea footballer who raised political tensions with Japan by displaying a political sign at the London Olympics after the countries’ bronze medal match has been banned for two matches.

FIFA said Park Jong-woo was guilty of unsporting behaviour, which “cannot be tolerated,” though his act appeared not to be premeditated.

The International Olympic Committee can now decide if Park will get his medal, which has been withheld since the August 10 incident.

After South Korea beat Japan 2-0 at Cardiff, Park displayed a sign in national colours with the slogan “Dokdo is our territory” to support sovereignty over disputed islets with Japan.

FIFA also reminded the Korean football association “of its obligation to properly instruct its players.”

FIFA and the IOC prohibit on-field political statements.