The 15th Asian Games in Doha began in earnest on Saturday with an opening ceremony featuring various events.

During the ceremony showcasing Arab traditions and technology, some 270 South and North Korean athletes entered the stadium flying a Korean Peninsula flag that included an image of the Dokdo Islets.

This is the first time for the Asiad to be hosted by an Arab nation in 55 years.

Qatar is especially eager for the games to succeed, as they could affect its chances of hosting the 2016 Olympics.

South Korea’s 832-member squad will compete in 37 events. They aim to capture more than 70 gold medals and finish at least second in the standings for a third straight time.