The world starts watching now. At least, when it comes to sports. After two failed bids, billions of dollars in preparation and a nagging national debate about whether it’s all worth it, the Winter Olympics open Friday in Pyeongchang with a gala ceremony meant to showcase South Korea’s rise from poverty and war into one of Asia’s most modern nations.
White Tiger & Five Kids perform during the Winter Olympics opening ceremony.
Performers entertain the fans during the Opening Ceremony.
Dancers perform “The Land of Peace” segment during the Opening Ceremony.
Colourful performance from a group of dancers during the opening ceremony.
Fireworks explode during the Winter Olympics 2018 opening ceremony.
Korean performers demonstrate martial arts prior to the opening ceremony.
Fireworks lit up the sky during the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics 2018.
Dancers perform during the opening ceremony of the 2018 Winter Olympics.
South Korea President Moon Jae-in waves during the Opening Ceremony of the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympic Games at PyeongChang Olympic Stadium on Friday.
A speed skating figure is displayed in front of the Alpensia Ski Jumping Centre ahead of the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, on Friday.