Lee named artistic director for 2018 Paralympic ceremonies

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) South Korean organizers have appointed Lee Moon-tae as executive artistic director for the 2018 Paralympic ceremonies but delayed hiring anyone to direct the opening and closing ceremonies for the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang.

Local organizers announced Lee's appointment Friday, saying the president of the Korean Traditional Performance Arts Foundation had produced and directed entertainment programs for KBS - the country's largest TV broadcaster - for more than 30 years and ''has a very strong understanding and sensitivity to the special needs and issues of the Paralympics.''

Organizers also assessed candidates for the Olympic ceremonies but said none ''satisfied the wanted requirements,'' adding: ''More consideration will be given to choose the most capable person to orchestrate the Olympic Games' ceremonies.''