Letter from the International Olympic Committee President to Roh Tae-Woo, Requesting the Adjournment of the 'Team Spirit 88' Exercises for the Safety of the 1988 Seoul Olympics

CONFIDENTIEL
Confidential communication

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From : H.E. Juan Antonio Samaranch, President of the IOC
To : H.E. Roh Tae Woo, President Elect of the Republic of Korea

Lausanne, 21th January 1988
Your Excellency,

May I address this confidential letter to you in my capacity of President of the International Olympic Committee.

During our various meetings in the last years, as well as on many other occasions when speaking with Korean and foreign authorities, including the US State Department, I have always expressed my concern regarding the potential danger and the many inconveniences of holding the “Team Spirit 88” exercise a few months prior to the Games. On every occasion I pleaded that this exercise be adjourned, in view of the celebration of this Olympic Year, as a gesture of goodwill and demonstration of your sincere desire for Peace.

It is not without reason that I draw your attention, once again, to this matter, because I think that a greater risk than ever exists.

I naturally count upon your guidance however I wanted to be sure that you understood my deep concern in this matter.

Juan Antonio SAMARANCH
President of the IOC