Seoul: Italian officials extolled the virtues of the 2026 Winter Olympics during a promotional stop in Seoul on Wednesday, saying South Korean athletes and fans alike will enjoy their experience against the scenic backdrop of the European country.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the organizing committee for the 2026 Winter Games, with Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo serving as the co-hosts, held the "Milano Cortina 2026 Meets the World" event at High Street Italia, the Italian cultural and business promotion center in southern Seoul. Andrea Varnier, CEO of the committee, was joined by Emilia Gatto, the Italian ambassador to South Korea, and the 2010 Olympic figure skating champion from South Korea, Kim Yu-na.
"Korea is one of the few places where we decided to have the 'Meet the World,'" Varnier said. "Your history of organizing Summer and Winter Games (in 1988 and 2018, respectively) is unique. In 2018, you hosted a great edition of the Games and we've learned a lot from your edition to put some of that insight into our organization."
Varnier highlighted that venues for the Olympics will be spread across the country, allowing spectators to enjoy the diverse cultures of Italy.
Gatto, speaking in both English and Korean, mentioned that the Italian foreign ministry has been focused on sport diplomacy in recent years, with an understanding that an Olympic Games is more than just a sporting event. "It's an event that celebrates universal values," she said.
Kim, a former Olympic figure skating champion, encouraged athletes to view the Olympics as more than just a competition stage. "When I was still skating, I could only think of my own performances. But looking back on my experience, I can see that Olympic Games are more than just about sports. They can help people write a story of their lives," she noted. Kim emphasized the importance of athletes experiencing and enjoying different cultures and developing mutual respect, seeing the event as an opportunity for athletes from around the world to unite.