Hosts South Korea began by defeating Iran ©AVC

Hosts South Korea defeated Iran in straight sets as the Asian Women's Volleyball Championships opened in Seoul.

The Koreans, who have never won the event but have finished as runners-up seven times, came through 25-17, 25-9, 25-14 in the Pool A encounter.

They won bronze at the last edition of the tournament in 2017 and will be hoping for better as they play host for the first time.

In Pool B, Tokyo 2020 Olympic hosts and four-time winners Japan powered past India in straight sets, 25-12, 25-14, 25-8.

There was also a victory in the 1988 Olympic host city for Kazakhstan, who saw off Australia 25-19, 25-20, 25-21.

Pool C saw two-time winners Thailand come from behind to defeat Chinese Taipei 20-25, 25-13, 25-22, 25-20.

Olympic champions and record winners China were far too strong for Sri Lanka ©AVC
Olympic champions and record winners China were far too strong for Sri Lanka ©AVC

In Pool D record winners China, who are bidding for a 14th title, eased home against Sri Lanka as the reigning Olympic champions recorded a 25-11, 25-9, 25-12 victory.

Group play will continue in Seoul tomorrow, with matches taking place across the Jamsil Arena and Jamsil Students' Gymnasium venues.

Eight teams will advance from the event to the Tokyo 2020 Asian Olympic Qualification Tournament, although Japan, as hosts, and China, through this month's Intercontinental Qualifier, have already booked their spots at the Games.

The final in Seoul will take place on August 25.