When the 1988 Olympics were awarded to Seoul, South Korea, grave concerns were raised about the ability of the organisers to run the Games in a nation which was not only ruled by an unpopular dictatorship but was in a state of permanent hostility with North Korea.

The first half of the problem was solved when the South Korean government bowed to international pressure and held democratic elections.

Attempts were made to appease the North Koreans by allowing them to stage several events, but in the end they boycotted the Olympics, taking Cuba, Ethiopia, and Nicaragua with them.

Madagascar and the Seychelles also stayed away for reasons which are unclear, while Albania, acting independently, declared its fourth consecutive boycott - an Olympic record.

Although tainted by steroid scandals and the assault on a referee by South Korean boxing officials, the Seoul Games were efficiently staged and the people of South Korea received high marks for their hospitality.