"We will not ban him from entering Korea if he applies for a visa unless he still has something to do with drugs," ministry spokesman Sung Yung-hoon said.

"We expect his presence in Korea to help enhance the World Cup's festive mood."

South Korean media reports on Wednesday said that after an approach from Maradona representatives, immigration officials had decided he should be granted the visa because of his standing as a World Cup great who could generate interest in the event.

Argentina's Maradona, 41, who led his country to World Cup victory in 1986, has in the past battled drug addiction, which shortened his playing career. He was expelled from the 1994 World Cup in the United States after testing positive for a cocktail of drugs.

A tournament source said Maradona had not yet been issued a visa but with clearance assured he is certain to come to South Korea.

Like many nations, Japan and South Korea have laws enabling them to deny entry to drug addicts and criminals. Entry is usually decided on an individual basis.

"In spite of the South Korean government's national regulations on drug addicts, immigration has given Maradona permission," The Daily Sports newspaper said.

"He was given permission due to his reputation as a World Cup superstar. South Korea expects his entrance would help raise interest in the World Cup."

However, South Korean media said Maradona's behaviour in the country, where he was expected to act as a television commentator, would be closely monitored and he would be expelled if he were involved in any drug incidents.

Japan had already turned down Maradona's application to visit during the World Cup to act as a television pundit.