The 1988 Seoul Olympics were held in Seoul, South Korea, from September 17 to October 2. This event marked the first time the Olympics were hosted by a South Korean city, showcasing the country's rapid modernization and development. A total of 159 nations participated, with over 8,000 athletes competing in 23 sports. The games featured notable moments, including the iconic performance of Carl Lewis, who won four gold medals in track and field. The Seoul Olympics also introduced new sports, such as taekwondo, which later became an official Olympic event. The event was significant for promoting international unity and sportsmanship.