The 1988 Seoul Olympic Games, the XXIV Olympiad, were a significant event held from September 17th to October 2nd. After boycotts marred the previous two Games, Seoul saw the participation of a large majority of nations, with 159 countries sending over 8,000 athletes. This was the second Summer Olympics held in Asia and marked a pivotal moment in global sports diplomacy, despite the absence of North Korea and a few allies.

The Games themselves were marked by both triumphs and controversies. Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson's victory in the 100 meters, setting a new world record, was quickly overshadowed by his disqualification for steroid use, a scandal that shocked the world and highlighted the growing issue of doping in sports. In boxing, American Roy Jones Jr. was controversially denied a gold medal despite dominating his final match, a decision that remains highly debated.

Despite these incidents, the Seoul Olympics showcased remarkable athletic achievements. East German swimmer Kristin Otto won an unprecedented six gold medals. American swimmer Matt Biondi collected seven medals, including five golds. In track and field, Florence Griffith Joyner of the United States set world records in the 100m and 200m, while Jackie Joyner-Kersee won gold in both the heptathlon and long jump. Soviet pole vaulter Sergey Bubka won his first Olympic gold, beginning his reign of dominance in the event.

The Games also saw the debut of badminton and taekwondo as demonstration sports, and tennis returned to the Olympic program after a long hiatus. Notably, all three medalists in equestrian dressage were women for the first time. The Soviet Union topped the medal table, followed by East Germany and the United States. South Korea, as the host nation, achieved a respectable fourth place. The 1988 Seoul Olympics, despite their controversies, are remembered for their impressive athletic feats and for largely overcoming the political divisions that had plagued previous Games, setting the stage for a new era of broader international participation.