It was after 1am in the morning in Pyeongchang when the result was announced in Durban but thousands of people gathered to watch the decision announced by International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Jacques Rogge on a giant television screen at a ski jump venue Pyeongchang will use in 2018.

The city had failed in two previous bids for the event but had always been favourites for the 2018 competition and as the IOC President opened the envelope revealing that Pyeongchang had cruised to victory in the first round, the crowd roared with delight, danced, hugged and cried tears of joy as fireworks were set high into the night ski.

"This is indescribably joyous," said Lim Myeong-rae, a 53-year-old who recalled riding wooden skis on a Pyeongchang hill as a boy.

"The two previous defeats no longer feel bitter in my heart.

"There is nothing more I want in my life now."

Lee Bom, a 15-year-old girl, said with laughter: "I feel like I can fly."

After the announcement, locals chanted their town's name and around 200 soldiers from a nearby base joined the cheering crowd to celebrate.

College students danced in groups against the backdrop of the ski jump tower while folk bands mingled with dancing locals, playing joyful tunes with traditional instruments.


South Korean President Lee Myung-Bak, speaking in Durban just hours after delivering a passionate speech in English to IOC members in support of Pyeongchang, said the news was a victory for all South Koreans.

"This is a victory for the people of the Republic of Korea," said the President.

"My fellow Koreans, thank you!"

Pyeongchang had scored near perfect marks in their technical inspection from the IOC Evaluation Commission earlier this year, who were particularly impressed by the level of local support for the event and the compactness of plans, with all venues being within 30 minutes-drive of each other.

But victory was not confirmed until the early hours of today in Pyeongchang and celebrations look set to continue for some time.

"We scored a great victory," said resident Kim Heung-Sik.

"I will never forget today."

Lee Hee-koo, a 65-year-old retired social worker, added: "A dream has come true.

"Gangwon people could not have done this alone.

"This was possible because we had the support of the entire nation."

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