KSOC President: ANOC General Assembly is a wonderful display of unity
The XXVI ANOC General Assembly is just days away and for the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee (KSOC) it will mark the realisation of an ambition which the NOC began working towards more than two years ago.
The world’s 204 NOCs are expected to take part in the hybrid General Assembly in Seoul with more than 190 due to attend in person and the remaining to participate online.
Ahead of this milestone event, ANOC spoke with KSOC President Kee-Heung, LEE on his thoughts on the General Assembly and the journey to get here.
How does it feel to finally be hosting the ANOC General Assembly after the previous postponements?
It is a great honour to welcome the leaders of sports to Korea. Especially, as this event will mark the start of a new beginning after more than two year’s of hardship caused by the pandemic. Through these hardships, we have learned that the Olympic Community is always ready to help each other and stand in solidarity. The ANOC General Assembly is a wonderful display of this unity.
Why did the KSOC want to host the ANOC General Assembly?
PyeongChang 2018 has been a showcase of unity that has brought interest in winter sports to new heights in Korea and abroad. The Korean Sport & Olympic Committee is dedicated to building on this legacy and promoting the value of sports. As a leading sports nation, we want to display the strength of Korean sports and contribute to the Olympic Movement through various sports events and competitions.
How have preparations been for the ANOC General Assembly?
As the first major international event following the pandemic, the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee has spared no efforts to prepare for a successful General Assembly. A dedicated task force has been working day and night to ensure that all delegates will feel welcomed in the city of Seoul. With the support of our many partners, including Seoul Metropolitan City, the National Federations, and the Local Sports Councils, I can say with confidence that this event will mark a new start of the international sports calendar.
How much of a challenge is it hosting a hybrid event of this size with attendees from more than 190 countries?
For a long time, we all had difficulties visiting each other at international events due to the travel restrictions imposed following the pandemic. In the beginning, we worked together with the government to find a solution to the challenging situation of welcoming all delegates to Korea. In the end, I am very glad that international travel has become more accessible and that the NOCs are able to join us here at the General Assembly.
Do you have any message for the NOCs who will be staying here in Seoul?
Seoul is hosting the ANOC General Assembly for the third time, following 1986 and 2006. Korea also welcomed the NOCs to Korea for the Olympics in 1988 and in 2018. I hope this General Assembly is an opportunity to further strengthen our ties and friendship. I trust that all delegates enjoy a taste of the Korean culture during the most beautiful season of the year, feel the warm hospitality, and enjoy the culture of Korea. I look forward to welcoming you back to Korea at the upcoming Gangwon 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games.
