By Korea.net Honorary Reporter Siti Martina from Indonesia
Photos = Siti Martina

The PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games are over, but there's an amazing impression in the hearts of everyone who watched the Olympics in Pyeongchang. The athletes worked hard, the performances in the Opening and Closing ceremonies were amazing, and it was cool to see how the PyeongChang Olympics were hosted. I'm glad that I was able to watch the Winter Olympics in Korea for the first time, although only on TV. However, there's another aspect of these Games that helped me to fall in love with the Olympics this time. That's the white tiger Soohorang, the mascot for the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games.

Soohorang, the Winter Olympic mascot, is a white tiger. White tigers are animals within Korean mythology, and they're a symbol of trust, strength and protection. The name comes from the Korean words "Sooho," which means protection, and "rang," which is the middle syllable of the Korean word for tiger, that is, "ho-rang-i."





In addition, the word "rang" is also the last syllable of the name of Gangwon-do Province's official provincial anthem, the Jeongseon version of the song "Arirang," and Gangwon-do is the host province of this year's Winter Olympics. Another interesting point: the name Soohorang is similar to the name of the leader of the pop group EXO. His stage name is Suho. That's what made me fall in love with Soohorang the tiger even more. I think Soohorang and Suho both look awesome. Soohorang has captivated audiences with its adorable smile and loyalty, giving warmth and bridging the spirit for everyone.

Soohorang not only gives us passion and energy, but is also a trustworthy friend who protects the athletes, audience members and all those who participate in the Games. As expected, Soohorang has proven its role by keeping these Olympics safe and spectacular. Though the final Games aren't over yet, everyone will remember Soohorang's role and presence at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics. From now on, I'll miss you Soohorang.

Now it's time for Bandabi to take up that role for the 2018 Paralympics. Hopefully, the Paralympic Winter Games will be just as successful as last month's Olympics.

Passion. Connected.

wisdom117@korea.kr

* This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.