(ATR) A white tiger named Soohorang and an Asiatic black bear called Bandabi are the new mascots for the PyeongChang 2018 Olympics and Paralympics.
The animals appear in Korea’s foundation mythology and are closely associated with the country’s culture and folklore.
The IOC Executive Board approved the mascots on Thursday, while the IPC had previously signed off on of the Paralympic mascot.
The tiger’s name comes from Sooho, Korean for protection, "meaning that it protects the athletes, spectators and all participants of the Olympic Games". Rang comes from the Korean for tiger ho-rang-i and Jeongseon Arirang, a traditional folk music of Gangwon Province.
The Bandabi bear is symbolic of strong will and courage, POCOG said. Banda comes from bandal, meaning half-moon, indicating the white crescent on the chest of the Asiatic black bear, and "bi" has the meaning of celebrating the Games.
The mascots are designed to actively engage the public. "Anyone and everyone will be able to use the mascots across a multiple choice of digital platforms and promote the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Games through interactive communication," said POCOG.
"The mascots will now spearhead our communication activities and marketing initiatives," said PyeongChang 2018 president Hee-beom Lee, who delivered his first progress report to the IOC today since taking up the position last month.
"POCOG will use the momentum to gain more public support and excitement for the Games."
IOC coordination commission chair Gunilla Lindberg said the white tiger was "a great choice" for mascot due to its strong links to Korean culture and connection between the Winter Olympics and the natural environment.
IPC president Philip Craven said Bandabi ""will help to convey the Paralympic vison and values to millions of people all around the world".
POCOG will launch the new mascots to the Korean public at ceremonies in July in Seoul and PyeongChang. They will make their international debut at the PyeongChang 2018 House during the Rio Games in August and September.
Reported by Mark Bisson
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