North Korea's first appearance at a World Cup finals since 1966 generated a huge amount of interest, with speculation rife over whether the isolationist state's tightly-controlled media would report on their country's progress in South Africa.
A highly encouraging narrow opening-day defeat to five-times world champions Brazil was swiftly followed by a humiliating 7-0 thrashing at the hands of Portugal in their last appearance, which signalled the end of their World Cup adventure.
And although the players and staff may have failed in their target to make their Dear Leader, dictator Kim Jong-il, proud, coach Kim believes his players can return home with their heads held high and in the knowledge that their compatriots will welcome them home warmly.
"As we cannot go to the next round my staff and players did not meet the expectations of our countrymen," said Kim.
"Nevertheless our people, even though we didn't play too well, will welcome us with open arms.
"If we had got better results I am sure it would have been better for everyone but for the young children in North Korea who are football fans, I think they will be more motivated and more interested in football."
Korea DPR play Cote d'Ivoire in their final group game and although they can no longer qualify for the last 16, Kim is adamant his men will bounce back from their recent disappointment and give the Elephants a tough match.
"If results are good confidence levels go up and if they are not good then, psychologically, for a certain period of time, they are going to be affected. It is the same for all teams," added Kim.
"We did concede a lot of goals but we are going to fight hard in our next game.
"It will be a way for us to avenge ourselves and we will try to restore our honour. We have restored our confidence level."
Kim did however rule out the possibility of wholesale changes to his team following the 7-0 demolition against Portugal.
"The result of the Portugal game was not that good but I do not think that means major changes are necessary," confirmed Kim.
