Nuribi ― the official mascot of the 28th Universiade Gwangju 2015 ― is the angel of light and messenger of hope.
Its Korean name means “fly for the world,” deriving from the name of the host city, Gwangju, which translates to “the town of light.”
With its blue and red hair shaped like the games’ emblem, the Wings of Light, Nuribi was introduced in 2013 as a symbol of hope and dreams in line with the games’ vision of “Eco, Peace, IT and Culture” and slogan of “Light Up Tomorrow.“
The Gwangju Universiade Organizing Committee said the mascot also symbolized the strength and dynamics of the games, shaped by the energy of light.
According to the tale of Nuribi: The angel or warrior of light came down upon the mountains and streams of the old town of Gwangju to help its people fight greed and hatred, and overcome obstacles in life facing fear and distrust.
The shape and red and blue coloring of its hair is a sign of peace and harmony, which the host of the 2015 Summer University Games seeks to promote during the sporting gala. The five blue wings in the emblem refer to the world’s five oceans, and the six red parts represent the six continents.
Also, the organizing committee said the character was designed to look strong and multitalented in various sports, with discipline and responsibility as a means to ensure a safe event.
Like any other sports mascot, Nuribi can be found across the country as a doll, artwork, and miniature sculpture, and on key chains, T-shirts and badges.
In a ceremony to mark the 50th day until the opening of the games last month, Gwangju raised a 7-meter-high Nuribi that will shine across the city like a lighthouse until the end of the Universiade.
The mascot also comes on stamps, and souvenirs featuring the character, ranging from sunglasses, hats to office accessories and umbrellas, can be found in 10 shops at the venues including the media center, Athletes Village and the Nambu University International Aquatics Center.
By Park Hyong-ki (hkp@heraldcorp.com)