Nike has won fame and fortune in sponsoring Michael Jordan, but now a Chinese brand is not yet very loud. It hopes to expand its brand influence by sponsoring the North Korean Olympic delegation.

Perhaps the world's top sports brands will not take a close look at this closed country that was once called "axis of evil" by President Bush. But Hongxing Erke, a Chinese company, hopes that if its sponsor Korean athletes win gold, it will make Chinese viewers aware of this brand.

"The relationship between China and North Korea is actually very stable," said Jenny Yeo, a spokeswoman for Hongxing Erke.

At present, the company is listed in Singapore.

"The domestic audience will see that both Chinese and Korean athletes have the chance to win the cards, so that we can attract a lot of people's attention," she said.

After rejecting a joint team with South Korea to participate in the Beijing Olympic Games, the DPRK delegation hopes to win medals in weightlifting, judo and wrestling.

People will see the "Swan" Swan logo in Korean sportswear, sports shoes and opening costumes.

Hongxing also is ready to put some of this kind of clothing and equipment into the Chinese market, looking forward to the curiosity of the customers to buy.

"Koreans attach great importance to sports. They are making every effort to prepare for the Olympic Games.

This is a big event for them, "Yeo said.