KakaoTalk_20180309_221311744.jpg

President Moon Jae-in highlights the ways in which the Paralympics could raise peace to a higher level on the Korean Peninsula, and asks for the support of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) governing boards, at the Pre-Opening Ceremony Reception held at the Yongpyong Resort in PyeongChang-gun County, Gangwon-do Province, on March 9.

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.”

KakaoTalk_20180309_221315686.jpg

President Moon Jae-in, first lady Kim Jung-sook and other dignitaries hold their hands in the shapes of hearts as they pose for a commemorative photo during the Pre-Opening Ceremony Reception held at the YongPyeong Resort in PyeongChang-gun County, Gangwon-do Province, on March 9.

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