South Korea defeats North Korea in table tennis

Published : Aug 4, 2012 - 20:46 Updated : Aug 4, 2012 - 20:48

Ryu Seung-min (left) and Oh Sang-eun of South Korea compete against North Korea during men's team table tennis competition at the 2012 Summer Olympics, Saturday (Yonhap News)

South Korea defeated North Korea on Saturday in men's table tennis in one of the most politically charged showdowns of the Olympics.

South Korea won 3-1 to reach the quarterfinals of the team competition in a tense match that was closer than expected.

The two countries are still technically at war, playing a game that has often tried to bring them together.

In another men's matchup on Saturday, top-seeded China defeated Russia 3-1 and advanced to the quarterfinals.

In the other two matches Saturday, Singapore defeated Australia 3-0 and Japan beat Canada 3-0.

In opening round play Friday, Hong Kong defeated Brazil 3-0, Austria beat Egypt 3-0, Portugal defeated Britain 3-0 and Germany defeated Sweden 3-1. (AP)