Nine-time champions South Korea enjoyed a 10-goal win versus Uzbekistan ©Getty Images

Nine-time champions South Korea made a strong start to the main round at the Asian Men's Handball Championship, defeating Uzbekistan 31-21.

The expected victory leaves South Korea well-placed to reach the semi-finals.

Hosts Saudi Arabia and defending champions Qatar are also in Group I, and it was Qatar who came out on top when they met in the pool's other fixture.

Qatar triumphed 34-19.

Bahrain - beaten semi-finalists in 2020 - are in pole position to advance from Group II following a 29-15 win over Kuwait.

Iran edged past neighbours Iraq 28-25 in the group's other match.

All games were played at the Ministry of Sports Hall in Dammam.

The next batch of main round games is set for Monday (January 24).