THE SIDELINES : Korea Wild About Asian Games
There are so many people who want to visit China for the Asian Games next month that a computer will decide who gets to go, officials said today.
Those who are chosen will be required to watch at least one game and root for South Korean athletes, said authorities at the Transportation Ministry.
Nearly 50,000 people, about 12 times the number authorized, have applied to visit China as tourists during the Sept. 22-Oct. 7 games in Beijing. A computer will be used to choose names at random.
The number of visitors is being restricted because of limited transportation services and accommodations in Beijing.
In addition to the tourists, South Korea will have about 1,500 athletes, officials and reporters in Beijing during the games.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
