U.S. television network NBC has hired actor Jonathan Bennett and Eli of South Korean pop group U-Kiss to promote the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics to American viewers, officials said Monday.

NBC, the official American broadcaster of the upcoming games in South Korea, began filming footage for five clips in PyeongChang, Gangneung and Sokcho, located in the eastern Gangwon Province, since last Wednesday and will continue through Friday, according to the Korean Culture and Information Service.



American actor Jonathan Bennett and Eli of idol group U-Kiss were hired to host the TV segments. The two stars will together explore the region's winter scenery and attractions while experiencing traditional food and services as well.

The broadcaster has also filmed athletes competing in the International Ski Federation (FIS) Cross-Country World Cup held in PyeongChang from Friday to Sunday, a test event for next year's Winter Olympics. Bennett spoke with American cross-country skier Andrew Newell and received skiing tips.

The five clips, each approximately 2 1/2 minutes, will be aired every week starting March 5 on the network's "Today Show" and "Late Night with Seth Meyers."

NBC will also introduce American viewers to PyeongChang's sights and attractions through "1st Look," its travel and lifestyle magazine program, in October.

By Yonhap News