Thailand's U23 side saw their hopes of lifting the CFA Team China International Youth Tournament dashed on Tuesday after a 3-1 defeat to North Korea at Fengdong Football Park East Stadium in Xi'an.
The young War Elephants entered the contest knowing only victory would keep them in contention for the title.
They began brightly and almost struck first when Jehhanafee Mamah's effort cannoned off the post.
That early chance proved costly as North Korea gradually asserted control, pressing high and forcing errors from the Thai defence.
Thailand goalkeeper Kritsana Pummarrin was called into action to deny Kim Yu Song, but the breakthrough arrived in the 19th minute. A defensive lapse allowed Choe Kuk to seize possession and deliver a low cross for An Kyong Ung, who finished from close range to give the Koreans the lead.
Thailand struggled to regain composure and fell further behind before the interval.
Wichan Inaram's foul inside the box handed North Korea a penalty, which Ri Il Song converted with confidence to make it 2-0 at half-time.
The Thais rallied after the restart, with Jehhanafee reducing the deficit in the 55th minute. His strike briefly lifted spirits and Thailand pressed forward in search of an equaliser.
Kakana Khamyok and Teerapat Pruetong both spurned opportunities, the former missing the target and the latter firing over the bar. Their profligacy was punished late on when Choe Kuk capped an impressive display by scoring North Korea's third five minutes from time, sealing a 3-1 victory.
The result leaves Thailand winless in the tournament and highlights the challenges facing the squad as they prepare for future regional competitions.
Despite flashes of attacking promise, defensive frailties and missed chances proved decisive against a disciplined North Korean side.
