(CNN) -- North Korea is one of the world's most mysterious and secretive states, regarded as a political pariah and at bitter loggerheads with its neighbor South Korea. Few people are allowed past its tightly-sealed borders but footballer Ryang Yong-Gi, who was born and raised in Japan by a loyally North Korean family, is in a privileged position when it comes to entering and exiting. The 31-year-old is captain of top Japanese club Vegalta Sendai, and also plays for the national side of North Korea -- which in the past has faced allegations of mistreatment of its sports teams after major events.
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Ryang Yong-Gi is a Japan-born footballer who represents North Korea
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The 31-year-old plays for J-League side Vegalta Sendai
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He led the team to second place in standings last season
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He also aided relief efforts after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan
The performances of the team also boosted morale, eventually finishing fourth in the J-League with @placeholder providing inspiring captaincy,