In the heart of Korea lies the captivating city of Chuncheon, which has now taken center stage as the global hub for Taekwondo this week. In a remarkable display of unity and athleticism, a staggering number of 700 athletes from an impressive 36 Asian countries have converged on a single stage. This momentous occasion, which comes in the wake of a challenging pandemic, serves as a grand celebration of Taekwondo, a martial art that has long been regarded as the pride of Korea and a cherished gift to the world. In a dazzling display of athleticism and skill, the opening ceremony at the Hoban Gymnasium showcased the multifaceted nature of Taekwondo. As one of the foremost combat sports and martial arts in the world, Taekwondo took center stage, captivating the audience with its captivating blend of power and finesse. The World Taekwondo demonstration team, renowned for their captivating performances across the globe, took center stage at America's Got Talent. Their awe-inspiring routine not only earned them the prestigious golden buzzer but also garnered a thunderous standing ovation from the audience. In a heartfelt address, President Lee Kyu-Seok, head of the esteemed Asian Taekwondo Union, expressed his deep gratitude towards Dr. Choue Chung-won, the esteemed World Taekwondo President. President Lee commended Dr. Choue for his exceptional efforts in advancing the global reach and popularity of Taekwondo.
In a recent address, Dr. Choue Chung-won, the esteemed President of World Taekwondo, eloquently articulated the organization's unwavering commitment to making Taekwondo a sport accessible to all. With a clear vision and a resolute mission, Dr. Choue highlighted two remarkable initiatives that epitomize this inclusive ethos: the Taekwondo Refugee Team and the IOC Scholarship Program. These groundbreaking endeavors not only exemplify the core values of Taekwondo but also serve as powerful catalysts for positive change within the global sporting community. World Taekwondo, with its impressive numbers and large pool of athletes, has secured the second-highest position in terms of popularity. This remarkable achievement highlights the Olympic Movement's recognition and admiration for the sport.
In attendance at the event were prominent figures such as IOC Member Ms. Samira Ashghari, AIMS President Stephan Fox, and GAISF Vice President, who also serves as the chair of the Multi-Sport Games. During the gathering, Fox expressed gratitude towards President Dr. Choue Chung-won and World Taekwondo for their exceptional efforts. He further expressed anticipation for the inclusion of World Taekwondo as one of the 15 martial arts and combat sports at the highly anticipated 2023 World Combat Games, set to take place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The highly anticipated competition is now underway. With over 700 competitors, best wishes are extended to all participants!
