South Korea established diplomatic relations with China in August, ending its official ties with Taiwan (Republic of China), and the launch of KITSAT-1 (Uribyeol-1) gave the country its first satellite. Hwang Young-cho won the marathon gold at the Barcelona Olympics, and the arrival of Seo Taiji and Boys transformed Korean pop music. Kim Young-sam won the presidential election in December.
The year in Korea
MarElections for the 14th National Assembly were held. [Source]
AugKITSAT-1 (Uribyeol-1), South Korea's first satellite, was launched. [Source]
AugSouth Korea established diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China and severed official ties with Taiwan (Republic of China). [Source]
DecKim Young-sam of the Democratic Liberal Party won the 14th presidential election. [Source]
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Around the world
FebThe Maastricht Treaty establishing the European Union was signed. [Source]
Songs, shows & trends
Music
Seo Taiji and Boys – “I Know” — Their rap-and-dance debut single upended a ballad-dominated pop scene. [Source]
TV drama
MBC miniseries “Jealousy” — Its story of young urban love pioneered the Korean “trendy drama” genre. [Source]
Sports
Hwang Young-cho wins Olympic marathon gold in Barcelona — He became the first South Korean to win Olympic marathon gold. [Source]
Gadgets & services
Binggrae “Melona” — This melon-flavored ice pop, launched in 1992, is now sold overseas as well. [Source]
Year League: the best year
Sources
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