PyeongChang_2018_Station_2February 10 - The Pyeongchang 2018 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Bid Committee have announced further plans for its "Best of Korea" initiative – the promise to bring the very best entertainment and cultural opportunities to the region if Pyeongchang hosts the Winter Games in 2018.


The Pyeongchang 2018 Bid Committee has signed a new agreement with 16 companies and 80 brands to create a unique festival in Pyeongchang that the whole world can enjoy in 2018.

The new agreement will see many of Korea's entertainment and hospitality amenities, such as restaurants, shops, cultural attractions, and museums established in Pyeongchang for the duration of the Winter Games.

Participating brands include many of Seoul's award-winning restaurants and the world class culinary services of international hotels such as the Grand Hyatt, JW Marriot and Hilton; Korea's prestigious hotels like Lotte Hotel and The Shilla; and some of the country's most popular cafés and bistros.

Lotte Duty Free, Korea's first and the world's fifth largest duty free shop, also agreed to join the initiative.

Korean cultural performances such as "Nanta", a play that has been running for 14 years, and Korea's top performing arts companies, 'Sejong Center for Performing Arts' and 'Seoul Arts Center', will also participate in the 'Best of Korea' programme should the 2018 Winter Olympic Games be held in Pyeongchang.

The "Best of Korea" initiative also highlights PyeongChang 2018's commitment to delivering an excellent cultural experience for Olympians, winter sports fans and members of the Olympic Family.

The Cultural Olympiad is an integral and valuable element of the Winter Games experience and the 'Best of Korea' programme will be a central part of PyeongChang 2018's pledge to offer visitors an amazing cultural experience that celebrates Olympism.

Yang Ho Cho, Pyeongchang 2018 chairman and chief executive, said: "I am delighted that our 'Best of Korea' plans are taking shape, and I would like to thank all the organisations and individuals that have now pledged to participate in this exciting initiative.

"The 'Best of Korea' programme will offer everyone visiting Korea for the Winter Games the magic and intimacy of the mountains combined with excellent cultural and entertainment experiences – the best of both worlds – all within the special Olympic Winter Games city.

"We now look forward to sharing our vision for the 2018 Winter Games and our plans for 'Best of Korea' to the International Olympic Committee when the Evaluation Commission visits Pyeongchang next week."