The so-called “three lows”—a weak dollar, cheap oil and low interest rates—fueled rapid growth, and the trade balance swung into surplus. The Seoul Asian Games in September and October showcased the country's ability to host international events, while clashes over constitutional revision and student protests intensified.
The year in Korea
JunIt emerged that a female student had been sexually tortured during interrogation at the Bucheon police station, causing a public outcry. [Source]
SepDays before the Asian Games opened, a bomb exploded outside the Gimpo International Airport terminal, killing five people. [Source]
SepThe 10th Asian Games opened in Seoul and ran through October 5. [Source]
OctStudents occupying Konkuk University were arrested en masse. [Source]
OctThe government warned of a threat from North Korea's Mount Kumgang Dam and moved to build a counter-dam, later called the Peace Dam. [Source]
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Around the world
JanThe U.S. Space Shuttle Challenger broke apart shortly after launch. [Source]
AprA catastrophic accident occurred at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in the Soviet Union. [Source]
Songs, shows & trends
Music
Kim Wan-sun – debut album “Tonight” — Debuting while still in high school, she made a splash with her dancing and singing. [Source]
Gadgets & services
Nongshim “Shin Ramyun” — This spicy instant noodle, launched in October 1986, became Korea's signature ramyeon. [Source]
TV drama
MBC “Three Families Under One Roof” — A Sunday-morning sitcom-style drama about three families sharing one house. [Source]
Year League: the best year
Sources
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