French President Emmanuel Macron officially opened the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on Friday evening against the iconic backdrop of the Eiffel Tower. This year marks a significant milestone as the Summer Olympics return to Paris for the third time, a century after the last event in 1924. The ceremony was attended by numerous global leaders, including U.S. First Lady Jill Biden and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, highlighting the international spirit of the Games.
The opening ceremony, which took place along the scenic Seine River, was a historic first, allowing over 300,000 spectators to witness the athletes' march in a vibrant and picturesque setting. The event, directed by artistic visionary Thomas Joly, aimed to showcase France's rich culture and diversity through a captivating performance featuring 3,000 artists. Despite initial concerns over rain, the ceremony proceeded with stunning visual effects and a diverse musical lineup, celebrating the essence of the 'City of Romance.'
As the Games unfold until August 11, athletes from 206 nations will compete for 329 gold medals in 32 sports. Notably, this is the first Olympics with a balanced gender ratio among participants, and the absence of athletes from Russia and Belarus adds a significant political dimension to the event. The Korean National Team, aiming for its 100th gold medal, is set to begin its medal quest shortly, with expectations high for a strong performance.
