Democracy
In a coup for the Olympic Movement, Korea (South Korea) turned democratic in order to welcome the world to the Summer Games. Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) boycotted, and was joined by Cuba, Ethiopia and Nicaragua. Still, records were set with 159 nations participating, 52 winning medals and 31 taking home gold medals.
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.
Doping
Ben Johnson (CAN) set a world record in the 100m dash, but tested positive for steroids. Johnson was the first well known athlete to be disqualified for using drugs.
Ladies First
For the first time, all three medalists in equestrian dressage were women.
Seven Olympics
Fencer Kerstin Palm (SWE) became the first woman to take part in seven Olympics.
New on the programme
Table tennis makes its first appearance in the Olympic programme.
The Comeback of Tennis
Tennis returns as a medal sport after a hiatus of 64 years.
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: Chong Son-man, Kim Won-tak, Son Mi-jong (athletics)
Olympic Oath by: Hur Jae (basketball), Son Mi-na (handball)
Official Oath by: Lee Hak-rae (judo)