Move over, gold medals—Olympic mascots are the real superstars stealing hearts worldwide! From Beijing 2022's ultra-cuddly Bing Dwen Dwen (the panda in a frosty 'ice shell') to Paris 2024's revolutionary Phryges (inspired by France's liberty caps), these characters are more than just cute faces. They’re cultural ambassadors bridging continents!
Bing Dwen Dwen’s viral fame crashed e-commerce sites , with fans clamoring for plushies long after the Games ended. Now, Paris is upping the ante with its trio of Phrygian caps—symbols of freedom dating back to ancient Rome—reimagined as cheerful, gender-neutral mascots ready to champion equality and sustainability.
\"Mascots capture a host nation’s soul,\" says sports historian Dr. Lena Park. \"Bing Dwen Dwen’s ice suit nods to winter sports tech, while the Phryges’ bold colors shout French rebellion meets modern joy.\"
As the Olympics evolve, so do these icons—proving that sports, art, and diplomacy can coexist in one fuzzy package. Which side are you on: Team Panda or Team Liberty? Let the mascot games begin!
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Celebrating Olympic mascots: From Bing Dwen Dwen to the Phryges
cgtn.com