The seal is inscribed with a stylised calligraphic rendition of the Chinese character 京 (jīng, meaning 'capital', from the name of the host city) in the form of a dancing figure.

The open arms of the figure symbolise the invitation of China to the world to share in its culture.

The logo was created by Guo Chunning (郭春宁),[2] the vice-president of the "Beijing Armstrong International Corporate Identity" (AICI).

[4][5] International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge delivered an address at the unveiling ceremony on 3 August 2003 saying, "Your new emblem immediately conveys the awesome beauty and power of China which are embodied in your heritage and your people."

As this new emblem becomes known around the world and, as it takes its place at the centre of your Games, we are confident that it will achieve the stature of one of the best and most meaningful symbols in Olympic history.