The Pyeongchang 2018 Paralympic Mural was officially unveiled today during a ceremony held at the Paralympic Village ©Pyeongchang 2018

The Pyeongchang 2018 Paralympic Mural was officially unveiled today during a ceremony held at the Paralympic Village.

International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Andrew Parsons and Pyeongchang 2018 counterpart Lee Hee-Beom were among those in attendance.

They were joined by IPC vice-president Duane Kale, South Korea's Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Do Jong-hwan and Village Mayor Park Ensoo.

Also there to witness the unveiling were Korean student Para-athletes from Chuncheon Kaesong School and Gangwon Myeongjin School.

The Mural stands on the corner of the Village Plaza and represents a wall which turns into a bridge.

It is a symbol of support for the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Inspired by the participants of the Winter Paralympic Games, their achievements, courage and determination, the Mural is said to show commitment to a new world without barriers and limits to human abilities, connecting all nations and promoting peace through sports.

Para-athletes and Chef de Missions from the different participant delegations have been signing the Mural in various languages since the opening of the Village.

"The Pyeongchang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games are a Games of peace, unity and inclusion," Lee said.

"The Mural is a symbol of that inclusion and everyone’s rights to a world that is barrier free.

"I truly hope the Games can break down barriers and build bridges for better understanding and communication for everyone."

IPC President Andrew Parsons signed the Pyeongchang 2018 Paralympic Mural ©Pyeongchang 2018
IPC President Andrew Parsons signed the Pyeongchang 2018 Paralympic Mural ©Pyeongchang 2018

Parsons added: "This Mural represents how Paralympic sports can break down barriers in societies.

"Over the coming days, athletes, officials and coaches will leave their personal mark showing the commitment to a world free from barriers and limits for people with disabilities.

"As IPC President, I am passionate about sports.

"But I am even more passionate about sports changing lives and about sports changing the world.

"At the IPC we aspire to make for a more inclusive society.

"I have been 20 years in this Movement and have witnessed first-hand how the outstanding performances of Para-athletes act as a catalyst for people changing their views about disability.

"Here in Pyeongchang, I am confident that Para-sport will break down barriers and have a transformational impact.

"Disability most certainly does not define the Para-athletes, as the focus on their tremendous abilities is far more important."

The Mural is due to be open throughout the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Paralympics, which are scheduled to begin tomorrow and conclude on March 18.