POPULATION:
1,986,965 (2001)
CLIMATE:
Average temperature
February: 4.8° C
Average precipitation
February: 115.6 mm

POPULATION:
143,978 (1991)
CLIMATE:
Average temperature
February: -0.1° C
Average precipitation
February: 61.6 mm

POPULATION:
46,478 (2002)
CLIMATE:
Average temperature
February: -7° C
Average precipitation
February: 105 mm

PYEONGCHANG
With two major events already under their belts — the 1988 Summer Games and 2002 World Cup — the South Koreans have already proved their ability to organize and host major sporting events. Add in the reconciliation angle — that the Olympics could help bring together the North and South of this divided nation — and no should be surprised if the IOC decides to send the Winter Games to Asia.

Strengths:

• The South Korean National Assembly has pledged to enact laws to help make sure the games are financially supported.
• Some facilities already in place from the 1999 Asian Winter Games.
• Korea has a good record for hosting major events, including the 2002 FIFA World Cup and 1988 Summer Olympic Games.
• Good climate for winter sports.
• Compact bid, all the venues are within a one hour drive of each other.
• Low security risks. At other big events Korea has proven its ability to provide adequate public safety.
• An Olympics in South Korea could help contribute to a reconciliation with North Korea.

Weaknesses

• Transportation system would need to be improved to handle influx of traffic associated with the Games, although the IOC says plans for those improvements look good
• Olympic Village is at an altitude of 700m, which poses difficulties for athletes competing at sea-level venues.