The modern Olympic Games were founded by Pierre de Coubertin, a Frenchman, and the first edition of the Games were familiar with today was held in Athens in 1896. Coubertin believed sport could unite the nations of the world. Thus, he believed the Games could be used as a platform to promote peace and resolve conflicts. Coubertin’s philosophy still can be seen in various forms at the Games today.
The 2018 Olympic Truce Mural in the Olympic Village is yet another symbol that embodies Coubertin’s values. The mural represents the Ancient Greek tradition to ask athletes set aside their differences during the Games and compete peacefully. Athletes were asked to reaffirm their commitment to these ideals by signing the wall. To have the mural present at the 2018 Games just seemed very fitting – especially given that the Korean peninsula put aside their differences for the Games and marched as a united country at the Opening Ceremony.
