They bagged 23 medals including 12 gold medals in such events as weightlifting and diving of the universiad held in Taipei of China on Aug. 19-30.

When the train carrying them arrived at Pyongyang Railway Station, masses welcomed the players and coaches.

They were greeted by Choe Thae Bok, vice-chairman of the C.C., the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), Ri Il Hwan, department director of the C.C., the WPK, Vice-Premier Tong Jong Ho, Chairman of the Education Commission Kim Sung Du, Minister of Physical Culture and Sports Kim Il Guk, Secretary General of the National Sports Guidance Committee Kim Chun Sik, and others.

Sportspersons and students put fragrant garlands around the necks of the successful players and coaches and presented bunches of flowers to them.

A float carrying them was warmly welcomed in the streets.

They laid bouquets before the statues of President Kim Il Sung and leader Kim Jong Il on Mansu Hill before paying tribute to them.