"Though domestic political situations are unstable in some respects, (South Korea) has experience in tiding over challenges and achieving success," Hwang said. "We have made a lot of preparations as the Winter Games should be a festivity for the whole world."

Bach, in response, voiced hopes that the competition will serve as a chance to restore national unity, the prime minister's office said. The IOC chief also pledged constant support to South Korea, saying the Asian country and the IOC are on the same boat in preparation for the games.

The meeting was arranged amid growing concerns that Park's dismissal will adversely affect preparations for the Olympics that will be staged in PyeongChang and its nearby sub-host cities, Gangneung and Jeongseon, in Gangwon Province from Feb. 9 to 25 next year.

The Constitutional Court ruled last week to remove Park from office over a massive corruption scandal involving her and her longtime friend Choi Soon-sil. The disgraced former leader now faces a prosecutorial probe. (Yonhap)