The world's biggest sporting event for university students kicked off its 11-day competition Thursday amid an upbeat mood after North Korea withdrew its boycott threat at the last moment.

A projected 172 countries are sending athletes and officials in what promises to be the largest such event in the university games' 44-year history.

It marks the second time the North Korea has participated in a sporting event in South Korea, following its entry in last year's Asian Games in the southern port city of Busan.

The opening ceremony, held at the main Universiade stadium in Daegu City, proceeded with a focus on ultra-high information technology, and brought the enthusiastic mood to a climax when the joint inter-Korean athletic contingent marched together into the stadium under the unified flag of the Korean peninsula.

The official ceremony has begun with the opening of the games declaration given by South Korean president Roh Moo Hyun.

185 gold medals are at stake in 13 different categories which will be held in 29 venues in Daegu City and its vicinities.