By Jeon Han and Hahm Hee Eun
Photos = Hyoja-dong Studio
PyeongChang | March 9, 2018
President Moon Jae-in gave the welcome speech to the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) governing boards at the Pre-Opening Ceremony Reception at the Yongpyong Resort before the Opening Ceremony of the PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games, in Pyeongchang-gun County, Gangwon-do Province, on March 9. The president emphasized the contributions that the PyeongChang 2018 Paralympics could have in bringing a peaceful atmosphere to the Korean Peninsula.
President Moon said, “‘The Olympic spirit of overcoming all hardships – ajitos – is happening on the Korean Peninsula. Peace is approaching ever closer on the Korean Peninsula. I hope that this stream of harmony that started at the PyeongChang Winter Olympics will become a larger river of cooperation through the Paralympic Games, and eventually lead to an ocean of peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula. Your continuous interest and support are required to achieve this.”
Andrew Parsons, chairman of the IPC, said, “I have seen the kindness and smiles of the volunteers, and felt that they are the people who show the best side of Korea. Throughout history, the biggest number of participating nations and athletes are staying here at the Paralympic Village. The athletes, who have devoted the past four years solely to the Paralympic Games, are now ready to have a thrilling experience and to inspire the world. I hope that the PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games will help Korea further strengthen its legacy of having ever greater acceptance of people with disabilities.”
hanjeon@korea.kr