And with the so-called 'peace Olympic' hours away,.. world-renowned symbols of peace,... the UN chief and Pope Francis have touted the importance of abiding by the Olympic Truce during the Winter Games.
Park Ji-won reports.

In his message this week,... the UN Secretary General said all the world,... gathered in PyeongChang, will be united by the Olympic spirit of solidarity, mutual respect and friendly competition.
He said the ideal of transcending political differences for common humanity,... has even more resonance on the Korean Peninsula.
Adding that the Olympics represents the best of the world's athletic achievements and the best of humanity,... he called on all nations to honor the Olympic Truce,... which dates back to Ancient Greece.
Last November,... the UN General Assembly also adopted a resolution urging all member states to observe the Truce throughout the period from the seventh day before the start of the Olympics until the seventh day after the end of the Paralympics.
Meanwhile, Pope Francis sent his greetings to the IOC, and to athletes and participants of the Winter Olympic games in PyeongChang.
He said the traditional Olympic truce has special importance this year,... as the national teams of both Koreas will not only parade under a united flag but will compete as one team in women's ice hockey.

"This allows for hope for a world where conflicts can be resolved peacefully through dialogue and reciprocal respect, as sport teaches us to do."

He added that he will send his prayers so that the Olympics will be a great feast of friendship and sport for all.
Park Ji-won, Arirang News.