South Korea's Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Kwang-sik Choi revealed that Kim had been chosen to serve as the Organising Committee chairman ahead of Yang·Ho·Cho, who had led the successful bid.

Kim is expected to be formally elected for an initial period of two years at the inaugural general meeting of Pyeongchang 2018 on October 19.

Kim led Pyeongchang's unsuccessful bids for the 2010 and 2014 Olympics.

"Since PyeongChang began its bid to host the Winter Olympics in 2010, Kim has been with the town," said Choi.

"Kim has been the most passionate supporter and has the most knowledge about [how to prepare for the] Winter Games.

"As Kim has served as Gangwon Province Governor three times, he is the right person to realize the PyeongChang citizens' dream."

In 2010, he stepped down as Governor of the province that includes Pyeonchang after three terms but still played a crucial role in the successful campaign after being appointed as a Special Ambassador by South Korean President Myung-bak Lee.

Kim has also served as Mayor of Gangneung and Bucheon as well as vice-governor for administrative affairs.

Moon Dong-hoo, the former vice president of the IAAF World Championships held in Daegu earlier this year, was named as secretary general for Pyeongchang 2018.

Choi said the Organising Committee will have its headquarters in Pyeongchang but an office will also be set-up in Seoul to ensure it was close to South Korea's Government.

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