The southerners dominated a one-sided World Cup qualifying match that had already become embroiled in controversy after it was switched from Pyongyang to the Shanghai Hongkou Stadium due to a dispute over the use of national anthems and flags.

Fulham midfielder Seol Ki-hyeon wasted the best chance of the match, with the South Korea mostly restricted to long-range efforts as their opponents played with plenty of men behind the ball.

The result leaves the two sides level on four points at the top of Group Three after victories in their opening games.

But Huh concedes his side have a lot of work to do if they are to qualify for the next stage.

He said: "We have plenty to improve. We still left holes at the back and the attacking play was not strong enough. They played too defensively and left no space for our attacking line.

"I am not happy with the result. Because of the weather and other reasons, we did not prepare well for the match. My players could not adapt to the conditions."

North Korea coach Kim Jong-hun was more satisfied with his team's work, as his young side's game plan worked well against their more experienced opponents.

He said: "Our defence and attack combined very well. South Korea have become much stronger since the East Asian Championships and we executed our game plan successfully.

"We should have had an advantage because the game should have been played in Pyongyang but players should be able to get accustomed to all situations.

"The team was formed only four months ago and we have gained plenty of experience from recent matches. But it is still only the starting point because we have four qualifiers to play. I will try my best to make my team stronger."