PyeongChang Olympic Village Chief Promises Safety for Athletes

(ATR) Seung Min Ryu, mayor of the PyeongChang Olympic Village, tells Around the Rings he will use his experience as an Olympian to help prioritize athlete safety and comfort during the PyeongChang Games.

The two Olympic Villages for the 2018 Winter Games opened today in PyeongChang and Gangneung.

IOC president Thomas Bach visited the villages where the flags were raised of every nation represented at the Games. This included the flag of North Korea, even though it is illegal to fly it in South Korea.

Ryu, the IOC member from South Korea, is one of two mayors of the Olympic Villages for the 2018 Games, serving as mayor of the one in PyeongChang. Ryu competed in three Olympics in table tennis. Ki Hoon Kim, Korea’s first gold medalist in short track speed skating, oversees the Gangneung Olympic Village.

"I was so happy, but bear a big burden and responsibility of being mayor of the village in PyeongChang," Ryu told ATR. "I fully understand the ability to improve the athletes’ performance level so I will make every effort to keep the facility safe and have athletes be comfortable and stay in good conditions in the village."

Ryu rated the village highly, noting its accessibility. Every venue in the village is within five minutes walking distance of athletes’ apartments. Also, the volunteers and staff are ready to assist in any way.

"Thirty years after hosting Seoul Olympic Games, we were able to prepare the highest levels of services to our guests at PyeongChang 2018," Ryu added. "So I will do my best to provide the best conditions to the athletes."

The IOC president said the villages will help Games participants to prepare but also "allow the athletes to enjoy the spirit of the Olympic Games" in Gangwon province.

"Whenever you will meet your competitors at the time, other Olympians, the experience in the Olympic Village will be at the centre, not only of your memories, but also of your conversation," Bach told the assembled press at Thursday's opening.

PyeongChang 2018 confirmed today that 2,925 athletes from 92 countries will be taking part in the Winter Olympics. Athletes began arriving at the village last week, and welcome ceremonies will take place from Feb. 5-8.

Written by Aaron Bauer in Seoul

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