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South Korea was far from being the economic powerhouse it is today when it was awarded the games in 1981. In fact, television broadcasts were still broadcast in black and white. The Koreans, however, used the Games as a catalyst for upgrading the infrastructure of Seoul and the country as a whole. By the time the Games opened, the Koreans amazed the world with the sight of incredible venues which boasted a graceful combination of modern design and local tradition. Seventy-six skydivers floated from above into the opening ceremony. Also participating in the opening festivities were all Korean children born on Sept. 30, 1981, the day Seoul was awarded the Olympics. But nothing matched the human touch of the Korean's hosts as many visitors reported being invited to visit Korean homes, by taxi drivers or friendly people on the street. | |