Earlier this week, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) released a report that the 2018 Winter Olympics, originally set for Pyeongchang, South Korea, were being relocated north to the North Korean capital of Pyeongyang. The IOC’s decision came amid growing concerns on the wisdom of hosting an event so close to North Korea, especially after the security issues in Sochi. However, in a press conference regarding the decision, IOC president Thomas Bach announced, “By giving North Korea a major role in such an international competition, we hope it will take on more responsibility as an international player, and open up future conversations with their government.” Because much construction has already been completed in Pyeongchang, the two cities agreed to divide up the facilities, leaving the main Olympic village in the south, and moving the mountainous sliding sports to North Korea’s new Masik Ski Resort. In secret visits to Pyeongyang before last week’s announcement, inspectors were reportedly well-pleased with the quality of the facilities, saying “[The facilities’] qualifications will easily meet the high standards of the international community.” Construction of a high speed rail between the two sites is scheduled to begin later this month, which will reduce commute time across the border to one hour. But will this temporary alliance really be possible?

According to the Unified Korean Olympic committee, the answer is a definite “yes.” In the original bid for the 2018 Olympics, the Pyeongchang commission reported, “[We hope] this event will be a significant milestone in the reconciliation and reunification process between North and South Korea” (The Conversation). Surprisingly, the single purpose of carrying out a huge operation has brought the two states to friendlier terms than ever before. At joint planning sessions, the outright hostility present at past talks is nowhere to be seen, and officials on both sides are cautiously optimistic for the future of Korean relations. As a side note, state-run media responded to doubts about the country’s ability to host the thousands of visitors accompanying the Olympics. Citing “the miracle of its nuclear state,” the secretary-general of the national ski association promised, “If we can make nuclear weapons and rockets, we can build an Olympic village.” Judging by the surprising responsiveness of the North Korean government, this could be one small step toward a safer and non-nuclear North Korean state. All that remains now is to see the nation fulfill its promise.

Reporting live from Pyeongchang, this is news reporter Lise, for the 'One Korea Times.'