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Republic of Korea
1988 Olympic Commemorative
25000 Won
大韓民國
1988奧林匹克紀念
25000韓元
Item number: A1534
Year: AD 1987
Material: Gold (.925)
Size: 26.9 x 26.9 x 1.8 mm
Weight: 16.8 g
Manufactured by: Gyeongsan Mint
Provenance: Da Chen Stamps and Coins Collection 2014
This is a commemorative Olympic gold coin with a face value of 25,000 Korean won, minted in AD 1987 by the Gyeongsan Mint of the Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation and issued by the Bank of Korea. The issuance of this coin served two purposes: firstly, to follow the tradition established since the 15th Olympic Games in Finland, where the host country issues commemorative coins; and secondly, to raise funds for hosting the Olympic Games.
The obverse of the coin features the national emblem of South Korea, prominently positioned slightly above the centre. The emblem consists of the national flower, the mugunghwa (hibiscus syriacus), encircling a central Taegeuk symbol. The emblem is further adorned with a decorative ribbon inscribed with the Korean text “대한민국” (Daehan Minguk), meaning “Republic of Korea,” supported by a cluster of five hibiscus flowers at its base. Encircling the upper portion of the coin is the inscription in Korean, “제 24회 서울 올림픽대회,” translating to “The 24th Seoul Olympic Games.” Below, the text “한국은행 1987 오천원” (Bank of Korea 1987, 5,000 Won) completes the design.
The reverse side depicts the traditional Korean “Fan Dance” (부채춤), a cultural performance originating from Korea. Encircling the scene is the inscription “XXIV OLYMPIAD SEOUL 1988 25000 WON,” signifying “The 24th Olympic Games, Seoul 1988, 25,000 Won.” The fan dance was choreographed by Kim Baek-bong (김백봉) in AD 1954, incorporating elements of traditional shamanic rituals, court dances, and folk movements. Today, it is recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by the South Korean government and actively promoted as a symbol of Korean cultural identity.
The 1988 Olympic Games were held in Seoul, South Korea, marking the first time the Olympics were hosted by Korea and only the second Summer Olympics to be held in Asia, following the Tokyo Olympics in AD 1964. This edition of the Games attracted approximately 8,391 athletes from 160 nations, competing in 23 major sports and 237 events, making it the largest Olympic Games ever held at the time. The Seoul Olympics symbolised South Korea’s rapid modernisation, showcasing the nation’s economic achievements and cultural influence on a global stage. Unlike the preceding two Olympics, which were marred by Cold War-related boycotts, this event was notable for its theme of peace and reconciliation. South Korea actively invited nearly all nations, including those from the communist bloc, fostering a spirit of global unity. The success of Asian athletes, including those from South Korea, underscored the globalisation and modernisation of sports, marking the 1988 Seoul Olympics as a significant milestone in Olympic history.