The Tokyo-based organization is likely to send the squad to the sporting event in three phases by dividing it into three groups, according to the sources, adding that each group will stay near the venues for Olympic events for about a week.

Chongryon is currently in consultations with the South Korea Embassy in Japan for the squad's entry into the South, the sources said.

Chongryon members are required to get travel certificates, instead of visas, in advance for their entry, as their nationalities are "Chosun," meaning they are categorized as "stateless."

The South Korean Foreign Ministry issues the travel certificates within eight days of the application date under ordinary conditions.

The North will send 22 athletes, a 140-member art troupe and a 230-strong cheering group to the PyeongChang Olympics and Paralympics, set for Feb. 9-25 and March 9-18, respectively. (Yonhap)