Kim Jin-sun, the President and chief executive of Pyeongchang 2018, made his pledge as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Coordination Commission under Sweden's Gunilla Lindberg started its three-day visit to the South Korean city. 

"There are many important factors but I believe the most important thing is that we must create an athlete-oriented Games and facilities," said Jin-sun during a welcoming speech to the 11-member Commission, which includes Britain's Adam Pengilly.

"This is the essence of Pyeongchang 2018."

It is the first visit by the Commission to Pyeongchang since they were awarded the Olympics by the IOC at its Session in Durban last July.

Speaking to the IOC delegation here, Kim said PyeongChang would ensure that all related systems create "an athletes-first Games."

"With this priority, we're working hard, but our effort alone is not enough," said Jin-sun, the former Governor of Gangwon Province, where Pyeongchang is located. 

"We need advice and guidance from you."

Lindberg, who visited the city last year as the head of 2018 Evaluation Commission, said she believes Pyeongchang would leave a "great legacy".

"The 2018 Olympics will mark the 30th anniversary of the Seoul Olympics," she said.

"This will allow Korea to showcase again to the world its remarkable organisational ability, the strength of its sports movement."

The IOC Executive Board member added that the Games would be a unique opportunity for Korea to develop its winter sports programme.

"We will continue to support Pyeongchang's effort as we become one team with a common purpose to deliver fantastic Games in 2018," she said

The IOC Commission began its visit by meeting with local authorities, Organising Committee delegates and local Government officials.


Tomorrow, they are scheduled to check on a number of Olympic venues, including the Alpensia Resort where the biathlon, ski jump, cross country and sled events will take place.

They will also visit Gangneung, a 30-minute drive from Pyeongchang, to check the venues for speed skating, short-track speed skating, ice hockey, curling and figure skating.

Among those due to take part in the meetings are Choi Moon-soon, the Goovernor of Gangwon Province, and South Korea's Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Choe Kwang-sik and Korean Olympic Committee President Park Yong-sung will also attend the meeting.

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