The 21-year-old follows Lindsey Vonn and Benjamin Raich in being confirmed as ambassadors for the Games, and their role is to inspire and mentor athletes, whilst inspiring others around the world to become active in sport.

Kim, who claimed a gold medal in the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, said: "I am delighted and honoured to be a Winter Youth Olympic Games ambassador.

"The Youth Olympic Games are an exceptional event and I am excited to be part of the first ever winter edition.

"Having competed as an athlete since a very young age, I can relate to the participants of Innsbruck 2012 and I hope I can share my knowledge, passion and experience to motivate them to reach their potential."

IOC President Jacques Rogge added: "To have such a dedicated, gifted and internationally renowned athlete to mentor the athletes going to Innsbruck 2012 is fantastic news.

"Yuna is an outstanding Olympic champion, setting a new world record in winning her gold medal in Vancouver last year.

"She was excellent in her role as Pyeongchang 2018 athlete ambassador, and I am sure that as a Youth Olympic Games ambassador she will inspire young people to compete in winter sports."

Innsbruck 2012 celebrated its 100 days to go milestone earlier this week, and yesterday released 999 free tickets for the Games to the public.

The competition starts on January 13, and runs through to January 22, featuring more than 1,000 athletes from 65 countries.

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