Meet Bing Dwen Dwen: the Mascot for the 2022 Winter Olympic Games
Every Olympic Games has had its own mascot since the Grenoble Games in 1968. The mascots are fictional characters that represent the heritage of the place where the Games are taking place. Their role is to symbolize the spirit of the Olympic Games and educate the world about the host country’s culture, and this year’s mascot, Bing Dwen Dwen, is no different. Let’s meet the loveable panda representing the 2022 Winter Olympic Games in Beijing!
Bing Dwen Dwen is the official #mascot of Olympic Winter Games #Beijing2022! With a suit of ice, a heart of gold and a love of all things winter sports, this panda is ready to share the true spirit of the #Olympics with the whole world. pic.twitter.com/TSalSny3q1
— Beijing 2022 (@Beijing2022) September 17, 2019
What is Bing Dwen Dwen?
Bing Dwen Dwen is a giant panda bear, which is one of the national animals of China and is often referred to as the country’s “national treasure.” Over its signature black and white fur, Bing Dwen Dwen wears a full-body “shell” made out of ice. The suit and the halo of colors around Bing Dwen Dwen’s face are made to resemble an astronaut suit, symbolizing technology and promoting the idea of a future with infinite possibilities.
The suit also helps Bing Dwen Dwen skate, snowboard, ski, and more alongside the Winter Olympics athletes! The heart on its palm symbolizes the host country’s hospitality and is intended to help welcome athletes from all around the world.
What does Bing Dwen Dwen symbolize?
Bing Dwen Dwen (雪容融) is a Mandarin Chinese name, the official language of the Games’ host country. The word “bing” has many meanings, but one of the most common is “ice.” While “ice” relates directly to the Winter Olympics, it also is a word that symbolizes purity and strength in Chinese culture.
“Dwen Dwen” translates to “robust and lively” and represents children. Bing Dwen Dwen is meant to bring joy to and inspire those who watch the Olympic Games, while also promoting the strength of the athletes who will compete. As a whole, the mascot will embody all aspects of the Olympic spirit and values: excellence, friendship, and respect.
How was Bing Dwen Dwen created?
Artists from around the world submitted their designs for the 2022 Winter Olympics mascot. The global competition received over 5,800 submissions from 35 countries. After deliberation from a panel of judges from the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts and Jilin University of the Arts, artist Cao Xue was selected as the winner. His animated panda design developed into Bing Dwen Dwen, who will guide viewers and athletes alike through the 2022 Winter Olympic Games journey.
Looking to learn more about the history of the Olympic Winter Games and their mascots? Download our Kids Guide to the 2022 Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games!
