Security guards hold down North Korean fans during a World Cup qualifying match between North Korea and Iran in Pyongyang on March 30.

FIFA made the decision at its disciplinary committee session in Zurich, Switzerland, after considering the outbreak of violence during the match in the North Korean capital between Iran and North Korea.

The Japan-North Korea match had originally been scheduled for Pyongyang on June 8.

FIFA imposed a fine of $16,770 on North Korea for the violence.

In the Iran-North Korea match, trouble erupted as North Korean fans showered the pitch with rocks, bottles and chairs after the 2-0 defeat.

A mob of thousands stopped the Iranian players from leaving the stadium after the match, requiring police to restore order.

The Japan Times Weekly: May 7, 2005
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