1,200 security guards quarantined ahead of Winter Olympics

PYEONGCHANG, South Korea — Hundreds of military members are coming into Pyeongchang to replace 1,200 security guards quarantined for sickness.

Those guards were isolated after dozens showed symptoms of the norovirus.

The 900 military members will now be part of a complex security system to protect the games.

Channel 11's Gordon Loesch is in South Korea and reports he has seen a lot of extra security since he arrived at the Olympics, including police SWAT vehicles.

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But it's also what can't be seen, the invisible security officials who are watching from behind the scenes.

From the moment Olympians and Olympic fans get off the plane at the airport in Seoul, security is hard to miss. The surveillance extends across South Korea to the games in Pyeongchang.

The venues are not yet open to the public, but police regularly sweep the area. Security cameras are everywhere: on buildings, stadiums, and posts throughout the Olympic Park.

"I think there's no dangers here. There's no problem, I think," said Raymond Lee, a resident.

But South Korea is preparing for the worst.

Two weeks ago, they staged a mock seige to carry out security drills that even included defense against drone attacks.

The concerns are not just about terrorism, but the rising tensions between America and North Korea.

The games are being held just 50 miles from the border.

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"Even we Koreans are concerned and worried about the North Koreans coming in for the hockey," said resident Kiunz Taalim. "Foreigners should be worried about safety."

Security is expected to be stepped up even more to become much more visible as we approach the beginning of the games which start Thursday, the day before the opening ceremonies.

You can watch the Winter Olympics right here on Channel 11.