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here is a used Olympic torch from the 2018
PyeongChang Winter Games, one that united North and South Korean
athletes under one Korean flag—at least for 17 days—and will hopefully
be the catalyst for finally putting an end to 50+ years of intense
conflict between the two regions.
Constructed of a
white metal exterior shell with gold-colored metal interior, measuring
27.5″ in length and 3.25″ at its widest point, designed and manufactured
by Young-se Kim, Inno Design / Groupe Hanhwa. At the top, the exterior
shell is divided into five vertical branches to form a pentagonal shape,
representing the sporting passion and spirit that unites the five
Olympic continents (Africa, Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Australia). A
colorful raised PyeongChang 2018 emblem decorates the body of the
torch, and the handle is printed with golden stars. The white and gold
colors used in the design represent the snow and ice of the Winter
Games, as well as the Olympic flame, and correspond with the color
scheme of the PyeongChang relay. The 700 millimeter length of the torch
represents the altitude of PyeongChang, which lies 700 meters above sea
level. The torch is specially designed so that the flame can burn
continuously despite inclement weather. It generates an air tunnel that
sends more oxygen to the flame, and a pentagonal hole at the bottom of
the torch allows water to drain.
The
flame-lighting ceremony for the 2018 Games was held in Olympia, Greece,
on October 24, 2017, and from there the Olympic flame was carried to
Pyrgos. The flame arrived on Korean soil in Incheon on November 1st, to
commence the 101-day relay toward PyeongChang Olympic Stadium, where the
Olympic cauldron was ultimately lit on February 9, 2018. This example exhibits evidence of combustion near the flame opening at top, but otherwise shows very light wear and presents almost like new. Comes complete with its black velvet drawstring carrying
bag and original brown presentation box (shaped like a thick poster
tube) equipped with a leather handle. A fancy set indeed.