The Japanese youngsters showed remarkable determination to remain in the contest after falling behind in the second half, eventually forcing a penalty shoot-out with a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser.
DPR Korea took the lead in the 52nd minute through Ri Ui-gyong, who produced an excellent half-volley to put the defending champions in front.
Japan struggled to find an equaliser as DPR Korea looked set to secure another appearance in the final and continue their bid for a third consecutive title.
However, Japan refused to give up and found a lifeline in the fifth minute of stoppage time. Won Sol-gyong inadvertently turned the ball into her own net under pressure, sending the match into a penalty shoot-out.
Japan then held their nerve from the spot, converting four penalties to secure a 4-1 victory. DPR Korea's Eh Chong-gum saw her effort saved by goalkeeper Kou Kadowaki, while Kim Ju-gyong struck the post.
Asuka Tanaka converted the decisive penalty to complete Japan's remarkable victory and send the team into the final.
Japan set up final against Nigeria
The victory sends Japan into their first FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup final since 2016, where they will face Nigeria's Flamingos.
Nigeria booked their place in the final after defeating Brazil 3-1 in the other semi-final, with Queen Joseph scoring once and Awawu Bashiru netting twice.
The final will provide Japan with an opportunity to claim another world title, while Nigeria will be aiming to make history by winning the competition for the first time.
Match details
• Japan: 1 (4-1 on penalties)
• DPR Korea: 1
• DPR Korea scorer: Ri Ui-gyong 52'.
• Japan scorer: Won Sol-gyong 90+5' (own goal).
• Penalty shoot-out: Japan won 4-1.
• Competition: FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2026, semi-final.
• Date: Wednesday, 4 November 2026.
• Final: Japan vs Nigeria, Saturday, 7 November 2026.