The first presentable opportunity of the match fell to Korea DPR's star man Han Kwang Song. The No9 was found in the South African penalty area by a lofted Pak Yong Gwan through ball, but the forward could not get enough behind his effort when one-on-one and Mondli Mpoto easily saved.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, Korea DPR recovered quickly, with Han bursting into the African side's penalty area before he was halted by Katlego Mohamme. Another penalty was coolly dispatched, this time by Kim Wi Song.
Into the second period, the Asian champions looked as though it was they who had the man advantage, streaming forwards at will, with a couple of opportunities, first for Choe Song Hyok and then for that man Han, going begging.
A remarkable late moment had the crowd on its feet as Mpoto came sprinting out of his goal, made a tackle close to the halfway line and sprinted over the halfway line to set up an attack, but it was in vain.
It was to be a share of the spoils for Group E's opening day's defeated sides, leaving them on a point each heading into their final matches. The Amajimbos stay in Concepcion for their showdown with Russia, while Korea DPR head to Puerto Montt for their pool finale against Costa Rica.