Samsung Group Chairman Lee Kun-hee has departed for Europe as part of efforts to support Pyeonchang’s bid to host the 2018 Winter Olympics.

Lee, a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), left Korea on Wednesday and will reportedly visit Switzerland and Italy before the end of this month to meet with members of the IOC.

Earlier in February, Lee actively supported Pyeonchang’s bid while in attendance at the Vancouver Winter Olympics.

The IOC will announce the host of the 2018 Winter Olympics during its general assembly that will open in South Africa in July of next year.