Seoul
1988

Memorable Champions

German cyclist Christa Luding-Rothenburger, who was also a speed skater, earned a silver medal in cycling. Having already won two medals at the Winter Games, she became the only person in history to win winter and summer medals in the same year. Greg Louganis successfully defended his titles in both diving events, and American swimmer Matt Biondi won seven medals, including five golds.

NOCs: 159

Athletes: 8,391

Events: 237

Volunteers: 27,221

Media: 11,331 media (4,978 written press, 6,353 broadcasters)

Emotion

The Games got off to a dramatic start at the Opening Ceremony when the torch was run into the stadium by 76-year-old Sohn Kee-chung, the winner of the 1936 marathon. In 1936, Sohn had been forced to enter using a Japanese name because Korea was occupied by Japan.

Ceremonies

2 October 1988 : General view of Korean dancers during the Closing Ceremony.

Official Opening of the Games by:

President Roh Tae-woo

Lighting the Olympic Flame by:

Chung Sun-Man, Kim Won-Tak, Sohn Mi-Chung (athletics)

Olympic Oath by:

Hur Jae (basketball), Son Mi-na (handball)

Officials' Oath by:

Lee Hak-rae (judo)