Speaking during the Pyeongchang 2018 one-year-to-go celebrations, the Hwang state the Government would look to work closely with the IOC and both Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022 in the final year of preparations.

His speech comes at a time of polticial uncertainty in the country, with suspended President Park Geun-hye facing impeachment proceedings, while last month Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Cho Yoon-sun resigned from her post after being arrested on charges of abuse of authority.

However, Hwang appeared to ease any concerns that the political situation could have on the Games, while he vowed to help boost promotion of Pyeongchang 2018.

“For the last five and a half years, we have done whatever we can to ensure the success of the Winter Olympics against a number of adversities," he said.

“In order to materialise an Olympics of peace, culture and ICT, to make a worth contribution to the world peace, interact with the world and showcase state-of-the-art technologies, we have harnessed the strengths and wisdom of all citizens.

“The Government is also firmly committed to delivering a Games that will go down in history as one of the most successful Olympics.

“It has already earmarked roughly KRW ₩937.2 billion ($798 million/£653 million/€750 million) this year for preparation of the Games.

“I would like to ask the Organising Committee, Gangwon Province and all related parties to exert precision in the inspection of facility safety and in the operation of the Games through the test events.

“At the same time we should not overlook non-sports factors outside the sports arena, such as local infrastructure, accommodation and promotions.

“The Government will beef up its cooperation with the International Olympic Committee, as well as with Japan and China, the next hosts of the Olympic Games.

“Let us all lend our hands to ensure the success of the Games.”

The One Year to Go Countdown Celebration was broadcast live on the Olympic Channel, with speeches also being given by IOC Coordination Commission chair Gunilla Lindberg and South Korea’s National Assembly chair Chung Sye-kyun.

The Ceremony featured numerous traditional South Korean dances and songs, while the event also displayed the modern side of the country, with a K-pop group performing.

Flags of each of the competing nations at Sochi 2014 were displayed during the event, while the Olympic anthem and flag raising were part of the proceedings.

IOC President Thomas Bach, appearing via a video message, pledged to be alongside the South Korean organisers at every step of the preparations for next year’s Games.

He invited athletes from all National Olympic Committees to attend the Games, signing letters to the organisations from Lausanne.

“One year from now you will make history, it will be your moment to amaze the world and will open up new horizons," Bach said.

“Pyeongchang will transform into a hub for Asian winter sport.

“Today it is might great pleasure to invite NOCs from around the world and their athletes to participate.

“This would not be possible without the Korean community, Korea always keeps its promises.

“We are at your side for every step on this journey and I am sure these Games will be a fantastic experience for everyone.”

The Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympics are due to begin on February 9 next year, with the Games running until the Closing Ceremony on February 25.