The South Korean hospitality house for the 2026 Winter Olympics opened in Milan, Italy. Overseen by the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, it will promote Korean culture and tourism. The opening ceremony featured key figures highlighting Korea's Olympic values and cultural contributions.
The opening ceremony for Korea House, South Korea's hospitality space for the 2026 Winter Olympics, took place on Thursday, February 6, at Villa Necchi Campiglio in Milan. This historic house museum, owned by the nonprofit Fondo Ambiente Italiano (FAI) or National Trust of Italy, will be operated by the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee (KSOC) and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism until February 22, the closing day of the Games.
Attendees included KSOC President Ryu Seung-min, Sports Minister Chae Hwi-young, several International Olympic Committee (IOC) members, and representatives from national Olympic committees. Kim Jae-youl, the sole South Korean IOC member recently elected to the Executive Board, was also present. The event began with a fashion show featuring the traditional Korean dress hanbok, followed by a performance from a Milan-based Korean choir.
In his speech, dressed in hanbok, Ryu described Korea House as "a place where dreams are built" and where visitors can "experience and enjoy the diversity of Korean culture." He noted that Korea has inspired the world through its culture, food, K-pop, and sports, and urged support for Korean athletes.
Chae hoped the house would let visitors "set aside competition for a moment and enjoy the stories and connections that sport creates." He emphasized Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship, stating that "warm hospitality matters more than heated rivalry."
Kim conveyed a message from IOC President Kirsty Coventry, expressing gratitude for South Korea's contributions to the Olympic Movement.
Originally an office for KSOC staff, Korea House has evolved over the past two decades into a venue for promoting Korean culture, tourism, and sports diplomacy. The mansion will host official receptions, with an outdoor tennis court converted into a cultural and tourism promotion area. A basement lounge serves South Korean Olympians.
February 17, Lunar New Year's Day, is designated as "Korea Day," offering experiences in Korean traditions and folk games. The house opens daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. via advance reservations at www.koreahouse2026.com or on-site registration.
It aims to showcase Korean hospitality and culture to global visitors during the Games.
