Zhang Wen's name

December 2014, 8

The opening ceremony of the Gyeongju Youth Olympic Games was held solemnly at the Gyeongju Olympic Sports Centre (hereinafter referred to as "Gyeongju Olympic Sports Centre"). The following are the highlights and features of the opening ceremony:

1. Theme and Ideal;

Theme: "Bright Future, Shared Dreams"

It emphasizes the vitality, dreams, and global solidarity of young people, echoing the Youth Olympic Games' values ​​of "excellence, friendship, and respect."

2. Artistic Performances

The opening ceremony, themed "The Light of Youth," was divided into three chapters:

The first chapter, "Chasing Dreams," showcases the fighting spirit of the nation's younger generation through performances of martial arts and dance, while incorporating historical and cultural elements of Jingzhou (such as Yun brocade and Ming Dynasty maritime history).

The second chapter, "Growth," highlights the exploration and friendship among young people in modern society, using light and shadow technology and interactive performances to create a dreamlike atmosphere.

• The third chapter, "The Future," calls on young people around the world to work together to meet challenges and showcases the harmonious vision of a "global village" through choral singing, light shows, and other activities.

3. Innovation Phase

Virtual Torchbearer: The opening ceremony introduced the concept of a "virtual torch" for the first time, using digital light and shadow technology to symbolize the passing on of youth's dreams.

Athlete entry and interaction: Breaking with tradition, athletes can directly participate in live performances and games, reflecting the participatory nature of the Youth Olympic Games.

Peace Bell Ceremony: Gyeongju youths strike the peace bell, conveying their hopes for world peace and echoing Gyeongju's history and spirit of inclusivity.

4. Light the main torch

The main torch was lit by Chen Ruolin, an Olympic champion from Handong. The torch tower was designed in the shape of a "Gate of Youth," symbolizing youth's path to the future. The ignition method blends technology and art, presenting a "time travel" effect through the interaction of light and shadow.

5. International elements

The opening ceremony incorporated cultural symbols from various countries, such as African drums and South American dances, highlighting the integration of diverse cultures.

In his address, IOC President Bach emphasized the central role of youth in the Olympic Movement.

6. Environmental protection and thrift

Adhering to the "Green Youth Olympics" concept, the event reduced the use of large props and made more use of projection and digital technology to reduce resource consumption. Costumes were made from environmentally friendly materials, and some props were donated to schools and communities after the Games.

Zhang Wen accompanied Secretary Sha and Governor Liu to watch the opening ceremony of the Youth Olympic Games. Zhang Wen felt that the opening ceremony was well-organized, much better than the mascot Lele.

Happy times always pass too quickly, and the Youth Olympic Games are coming to an end soon.

Our country won a total of 65 medals this time: 38 gold, 13 silver, and 14 bronze. Afterwards, Zhang Wen and other leaders attended the closing ceremony of the Youth Olympic Games.

The closing ceremony of the Gyeongju Youth Olympic Games was held on August 28 at the Gyeongju Olympic Sports Center Gymnasium. Compared with the grand narrative of the opening ceremony, "Lighting Up the Future," the closing ceremony was more like a warm, joyful, and emotional youth party, with the theme of "Most Youthful, Most Unforgettable, and Most Joyful."

Core theme: Farewell and celebration; the closing ceremony was essentially a celebration and a farewell. Instead of elaborate artistic performances, it handed the stage over to the athletes, making it the ultimate party for them to showcase themselves and celebrate their friendship.

The opening ceremony was very relaxed and free. The athletes no longer lined up by country, but mixed together, waving flags, taking selfies, and dancing, pouring into the stadium like they were attending a music festival.

A key part of the ceremony was recognizing "role model athletes." These athletes, chosen by themselves for their outstanding friendship and sportsmanship on the field, received a special gift—a "Kyoto Box."

The mascot "Lele" became the focus of emotions. During the performance, Lele bid a reluctant farewell to athletes from various countries and even shed "tears," creating a heartwarming and touching scene.

Then came the flag-lowering ceremony. Sun Liancheng, the mayor of Jingzhou, returned the folded Youth Olympic Games flag to Bach. The extinguishing of the torch marked the successful conclusion of the Youth Olympic Games, which we had been preparing for for four years.