Olympics 2022 in Beijing: mascot Bing Dwen Dwen - panda bear as the face of the winter games

Created: 01/25/2022, 18:12

By: Patrick Freiwah

Criticized venue - happy mascot: A panda bear is the face of the 24th Olympic Winter Games.

About Bing Dwen Dwen and what he should stand for.

Beijing/Munich - A panda bear named Bing Dwen Dwen is the mascot at the 24th Olympic Winter Games in the Chinese metropolis of Beijing.

Based on an endangered species, the cheerful animal isn't just a fantasy name:

The most common meaning for Bing in the Chinese language is "ice", but it also symbolizes purity and strength.

The term Dwen Dwen is a common nickname for children in the Middle Kingdom.

The word also stands for health, charm and self-confidence.

(click here for the Olympic topic overview)

Olympic mascot for the Winter Games in Beijing: the tradition began in Munich

“The mascot contains the best elements and characteristics of China and the Chinese people.

What I can already say is that it will be a wonderful ambassador for China and the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics," said IOC President Thomas Bach at the presentation of the mascot some time ago.

Meanwhile, the President of the International Olympic Committee has been facing enormous criticism for a long time, given the Olympic award to China and the conditions leading up to it.

2022 Winter Olympics mascot: Bing Dwen Dwen waves at the camera.

© VCG/Imago

Incidentally, 50 years ago, an official Olympic mascot was brought to life for the first time: in 1972 at the Summer Games in Munich it was a dachshund named Waldi, who gave a face to the competitions in the Bavarian state capital.

After the summer games in 2008, the winter games will take place in China's capital Beijing this time.

Here you will find all important information regarding the schedule.