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Michael Muleta ITF Taekwondo

Nepal ITF Masterclass Huge Success

Nepal ITF Masterclass Huge Success

Nepal ITF Masterclass Michael Muleta

On the 24th-25th February, 2024 Taekwondo ITF Nepal organized an ITF sanctioned Masterclass and hosted the 4th Everest Open International Taekwondo Championship, held at Dhanwontari futsal stadium, Kathmandu, Nepal .

The ITF Masterclass conducted by Master Michael Muleta ( 8th Degree) president of United Taekwondo ITF Australia (INO23), and Under Secretary of the ITF body. He was assisted by Master Laxman Basnet, (7th Degree) President of Taekwondo ITF Nepal .

The Masterclass focused on sparring combinations and strategies, ITF patterns , kicking drill and self defense techniques.

192 participants took part in the Masterclass from India , China , Netherlands, Australia and from many schools across Nepal

The 4th Everest open international open Taekwondo championship was then held on 25th with 211 players and officials from same countries.

There were 44 categories across sparring and tuls.

In the medal ceremony Chief Guests were Former Nepal Government Minister Biraj Bahadur Bista special visiting guest Master Michael Muleta from Australia.

Additional special guests included Arie Hogandooran member of ITF Royal Dutch from Netherlands, and a regular visitor to Nepal, Mr. Radhakrishnan Puthanpura, President of ITF Council of India , Mr. Chen Liu from China ITF.

Along with Master Laxman Basnet, all guests distributed medals and certificates to all winners and place getters.

Master Muleta said in the closing ceremony speech, that on this, his third seminar and championships visit to Nepal, that he was pleased that on each occasion the quality and quantity of students, instructors and officials skills have continued to grow and improve.

This, he said, was a testament to the hard work and dedication of Master Laxman Basnet In closing, Master Basnet gave special thanks to all supporters who help make this event so successful.

Korean Martial Arts – a brief history

Korean Martial Arts – a brief history

Korean Martial Arts

The history of Korean martial arts, often referred to as “Muye” or “Muyedobotongji,” is rich and diverse, with a lineage that dates back thousands of years. They have been influenced by various factors, including indigenous Korean fighting systems, Chinese martial arts, Japanese martial arts, and more.

Here’s an overview of the history of Korean martial arts:

  1. Ancient Korea:
    • Korea has a long history of indigenous martial arts, some of which were documented in ancient texts such as the “Samguk Sagi” and “Samguk Yusa.” These texts mention the use of martial arts in battles and competitions as far back as the Three Kingdoms period (57 BC – 668 AD).
  2. Influence from China:
    • During the Three Kingdoms period, Korean warriors were exposed to Chinese martial arts techniques through cultural exchanges and conflicts with Chinese forces.
  3. Silla Dynasty:
    • The Silla Kingdom (57 BC – 935 AD) is known for developing a unique martial art called “Hwa Rang Do.” The Hwa Rang were an elite group of young warriors who trained in various combat skills, ethics, and philosophy.
  4. Goryeo Dynasty:
    • The Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392) saw further development of Korean martial arts. The “Muyejebo,” an illustrated manual, documented various martial techniques, weapons, and training methods during this period.
  5. Joseon Dynasty:
    • The Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) contributed significantly to the codification and organization of martial arts. The “Muyejebo Beonyeok” (1599) and “Muyedobotongji” (1790) are important texts that outlined the various martial techniques of the time.
  6. Japanese Occupation:
    • During the Japanese occupation of Korea (1910-1945), many aspects of Korean culture, including martial arts, were suppressed. Some Korean martial arts masters continued to practice in secret.
  7. Post-World War II:
    • After World War II and the liberation of Korea from Japanese rule, martial arts experienced a revival. Various martial arts schools and organizations were established. Taekwondo, a Korean martial art known for its high kicks and dynamic movements, was officially recognized in 1955.
  8. International Recognition:
  9. Other Korean Martial Arts:
    • Besides Taekwondo, there are many other Korean martial arts with distinct styles and techniques. Some of these include Hapkido, Tang Soo Do, Kuk Sool Won, and more.
  10. Modern Developments:
    • In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional Korean martial arts and their historical roots. Efforts to preserve and promote these arts continue.

Korean martial arts are diverse, encompassing striking techniques, grappling, self-defense, and traditional weapon forms. They emphasize not only physical prowess but also mental discipline and moral values.

Their history reflects the nation’s cultural heritage and its enduring commitment to preserving these ancient traditions.

korean martial arts

What are some of the characteristics of the different martial arts of Korea ?

  1. Taekwondo:
    • Kicks: Taekwondo is renowned for its high, fast, and powerful kicks, including the roundhouse/turning kick, sidekick, and axe/downward kick.
    • Emphasis on speed and agility: Taekwondo practitioners focus on quick and precise movements.
    • Forms or Patterns (Poomsae / Tul): Practitioners learn a series of choreographed movements to develop technique and discipline.
    • Competitive Sparring: Taekwondo features Olympic-style sparring (WT), with points awarded for controlled and accurate kicks or Traditional type sparring (ITF) which also features more emphasis on hand techniques as well as kicks.
  2. Hapkido:
    • Joint locks and throws: Hapkido places a strong emphasis on joint manipulation, throws, and locks for self-defense.
    • Circular motions: Techniques often use circular movements to redirect an opponent’s force.
    • Pressure points: Hapkido practitioners may target specific pressure points for incapacitation.
    • Practical self-defense: Hapkido is known for its practical and versatile self-defense applications.
  3. Tang Soo Do:
    • Hand and foot techniques: Tang Soo Do incorporates both hand and foot techniques, often focusing on powerful strikes.
    • Forms (Hyung): Forms help develop discipline, balance, and technique.
    • Traditional uniforms: Practitioners wear doboks with specific belt colors to denote rank.
    • Focus on discipline and respect: Tang Soo Do emphasizes the mental and spiritual aspects of martial arts.
  4. Kuk Sool Won:
    • Comprehensive system: Kuk Sool Won encompasses a wide range of techniques, including strikes, joint locks, throws, and weapons.
    • Forms (Hyung): Practitioners learn forms that include various techniques and combinations.
    • Weapons training: Kuk Sool Won includes training with traditional Korean weapons like the staff, sword, and fan.
    • Healing techniques: It incorporates traditional Korean healing methods and acupressure.
  5. Gumdo (Kumdo):
    • Swordsmanship: Gumdo focuses on the use of the Korean sword, known as the “katana.”
    • Forms (Hyung): Practitioners learn various forms that simulate combat scenarios with the sword.
    • Cutting practice: Students often practice precision cutting with a sharp blade on bamboo or straw targets.
    • Emphasis on discipline and etiquette: Gumdo places importance on the mental aspects of martial arts.
  6. Sunmudo:
    • Meditation and breathing: Sunmudo combines martial arts with meditation and deep breathing exercises for physical and mental well-being.
    • Circular movements: Techniques involve circular motions and flowing forms.
    • Stress relief and relaxation: Sunmudo aims to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
    • Minimal contact sparring: Sunmudo typically avoids heavy sparring, focusing more on meditation and energy cultivation.

These are just a few examples of Korean martial arts, each with its own unique characteristics, techniques, and philosophies. Additionally, there are many more traditional and modern variations within the Korean martial arts spectrum.

ITF Taekwon-Do

ITF – Happy 57th Birthday

ITF – Happy 57th Birthday

ITF Taekwon-Do logo

The International Taekwon-Do Federation, ITF,  is the first international taekwondo organization, founded on March 22, 1966, by General Choi Hong Hi, the Founder of Taekwon-D0, in Seoul, South Korea.

The ITF was founded to promote and encourage the growth of the Korean martial art of Taekwon-Do.

ITF General Choi Hong HiGeneral Choi Hong Hi served as the Inaugural President of the ITF from 1966, until his death in 2002.

The main functions of the ITF include coordinating tournaments, conducting technical seminars, setting the technical standards for the teaching of General Choi’s art, working with affiliated member organizations, to oversee promotions in Degree rank and ITF certifications.

In 1965 General Choi, a retired two-star general, was appointed by the Government of the Republic of Korea to lead a goodwill mission to West Germany, Italy, Turkey, United-Arab Republic, Malaysia, and Singapore.

This trip is significant in that for the first time in Korean history,  Taekwon‑Do was declared as the national martial art of Korea.

ITF PlaqueThe international promotion of Taekwon-Do was the basis not only for establishing National Taekwon‑Do Associations in these countries, but also the formation of the International Taekwon‑Do Federation (ITF).

On the 22nd of March, 1966, the International Taekwon‑Do Federation was formed with associations in Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, West Germany, the United States, Turkey, Italy, Arab Republic of Egypt and Korea.

In the proceeding years, affiliated National Organizations were set up in many more countries around the World.

In 1971, the South Korean president Park Chung Hee began to use Taekwon-Do as anti-communist political propaganda. General Choi, feeling fiercely against this, went into exile in Canada, and the ITF Headquarters was relocated.

General Choi continued to teach Taekwon-Do throughout the world, and in 1974 he organised the first Taekwon-Do World Championship in Montreal.

The administrative headquarters later relocated again, to Vienna, Austria, where it was for the remainder of General Choi’s lifetime.

See General Choi bio

ITF New Zealand Black Belt grading

New Zealand ITF Black Belt Grading

New Zealand ITF Black Belt Grading

New Zealand ITF gradings

A successful weekend of New Zealand ITF Black Belt gradings and training was conducted by Master Michael Muleta, 8th Degree Under Secretary of the International Taekwon-Do Federation and President/Technical Director of United ITF Taekwon-Do.

The training and testing events were held in Queenstown, New Zealand and hosted by Kman’s Martial Arts, which is operated by multiple ITF World Champion, Kerry (K’man) McEvoy.

Students were put through a vigorous series of exercises and drills, over the course of 2 days, leading up to the final showcase on Saturday 4th March, at Kman’s Martial Arts centre.

The day consisted of lots of sparring, breaking, patterns, step sparring and demonstrations of skill sets. All performed with much spirit and skill to successful complete the testing process.

The testing panel consisted of Master Michael Muleta, Sabum Kerry McEvoy and special guest Sensei Barry Potter.

Congratulations to our newest New Zealand ITF Black Belts :

  • Diego Hernández, 3rd Degree
  • Marcin Kukialka, 1st Degree
  • Josh Bleakley, 1st Degree

 

New Zealand ITF 2 New Zealand ITF 3

 

Back on the Mat

Back on the Mat

back on the mat

We are pleased to announced that we are Back on the Mat after the most disruptive couple of years to our tournament circuit, and boy are we back in style.

The 3rd Global Open Championships is being held over the weekend of Saturday 22nd – Sunday 23rd, April 2023 at the Caroline Springs Leisure Center, Victoria.

It promises to be one of the biggest and most inclusive week of Taekwon-Do activities held in Australia’s 50+ year history. It all happens in Melbourne, Australia

We already have registrations from across Australia, New Zealand, India and Nepal, with messages of intent from some other countries.

 The event is open for all ages, all ranks and all Taekwon-D0 practitioners.

The Global Open Taekwondo Championships will feature both ITF and WT events

  • Team and Individual Sparring
  • Team and Individual Patterns/Forms
  • Self -Defense demo events.

REGISTER HERE

Official Arnold Classic World Championships replacement event

arnold classic tkd

The 3rd Global Open Taekwondo Championships will be the only official replacement event for the previously COVID postponed 1st Arnold Classic Taekwon-Do World Championships

All participants who remained ‘in-credit’ from the Arnolds, will enter this event FREE OF CHARGE.. You do not need to fill in a form, simply send us your updated personal details via email (admin@globalfitness.edu.au)……… so let’s all brush off our doboks and get back on the mat for a great weekend of Taekwon-Do action.

We will even be presenting all the trophies and medals we purchased for that event at the Global Open Champs.

REGISTER HERE

global open competition rules

VIEW COMPETITION RULES

global open ITFHoF

5th ITF Hall of Fame

On the first evening of the Global Open Taekwondo Championships, we will also be holding our 5th ITF Hall of Fame Induction ceremony.

Nominate your instructors, outstanding students, peers or anybody you feel warrants nomination to the Australasian ITF Hall Of Fame.

We encourage you to not only attend, but to nominate those you feel have much a great contribution to ITF in this region. (more info: itfhalloffame.com)

Places are limited due to venue size, so be sure to book early.

Register for ITF Hall Of Fame Banquet Here

(early bird prices end Feb 28th)

back on the mat

Award Nominations Are Now Open

Nomination Categories include:

  • Lifetime Contribution Award
  • International Ambassador Award
  • Outstanding Athlete award
  • Indomitable Spirit Award
  • ITF World Championship Representative Award

Depending on the nominations received, the organizing committee will reserve the right to elevate outstanding nominees to the ‘Legend of Taekwon-Do’ category.

Gold medal

Eureka Australia Strikes Gold

Eureka Australia Strikes Gold

Aussie team Eureka

Eureka, its Gold and Bronze for the Green and Gold. Congratulations to all who were part of the small but successful Australian team who competed in the recent ITF World Championships in the Netherlands.

After a year delay due to the infamous lockdowns, the ITF finally got a chance to stage the ITF World Championships in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Without domestic tournaments for more than 2 years, preparation for this year’s National Team was not as organized as normal.

Due to restrictions, financial hardship and travel reluctance, the team was a lot smaller than past Aussie Teams, and also one of the least experienced, with 5 of the 7 participants attending their first ITF World Championships.

Gold medal

But, oh boy, what an outcome we got, with Charlise Grossel of Canberra, stunning us all on Day 1, winning the Female Power Breaking late in the afternoon. It was a truly amazing result for the World Champs debutant.

We had high hopes that we may be able to snag a medal or two in the Men’s sparring, with the very experienced Zdybel’s getting on the mat. It wasn’t to be, and although both acquitted themselves well, unfortunately they did not make it through to the medal rounds.

So Day 2 ended, with everyone still on a high from that awesome Gold medal on the opening day. The general feeling in the camp was that we probably wouldn’t get any more medals.

Day 3 proved us wrong, the Men’s Power Breaking Team stepped up and became Bronzed Aussies with literally a smashing performance, coming in Third Place. To be honest, as great a result as it was, they were really only a whisker away from cleaning up the Gold again.

Bronzed Aussies

So all in all, a fantastic result at a very enjoyable and well organized and run event.

Congratulations to the squad who represented Australia. Phil Zdybel combined his competing in Sparring, Patterns, Power and Teams, with coaching other team members. Joshua Zdybel also competed in the same events. Jordan Steele and Kirby Ellis took part in both Power events, while Grace Ellis competed in Patterns. Then of course there was Australia’s new Golden Girl, Charlise Grossel competing in Patterns and winning gold in the Power ……. Eureka !!!

Katrina Cubit worked very hard Umpiring for 3 days, whilst INO President Master Michael Muleta was part of the 4-person Tournament Committee coordinating the overall event.

So Australia, and more specifically United ITF Taekwon-Do Australia (INO#23) as the National Organization, was well represented and people knew Australia was there….. oi oi oi.

 

SEE FULL RESULTS HERE

 

AUSTRALIAN RESULTS

Charlise Grossel – Gold, Junior Female Power

Phil Zdybel, Josh Zdybel, Jordan Steele, Kirby Ellis – Bronze, Adult Male Power

taekwondo resources

New Black Belts

New Black Belts – Congratulations

new black belts

Congratulations to all the new black belts who were tested and successfully promoted over the past 2 weeks in both Newcastle and Rockhampton.

Master Michael Muleta, 8th Degree, travelled to Newcastle, NSW early June to conduct some Black Belt Examinations and an ITF Masterclass at the Titan Martial Arts school. Some black belts had also been promoted the week before, by Sabum Michael Omay.

Those promoted included:

  • Michael Omay 6th Degree
  • Scott Gannon, 5th Degree
  • Sam Wilson, 5th Degree
  • Alex Sorensen, 4th Degree
  • Simon Aliendi, 3rd Degree
  • James Magill, 3rd Degree
  • Chris Streets, 3rd Degree
  • Archer Woller, 2nd degree
  • Tim Kerkhoff, 2nd Degree
  • Maclean Davis, 1st Degree
  • Travis Charlton, 1st Degree
  • Sapphire Tabas, 1st Degree
  • Tiarne Sattler, 1st Degree
  • Kalleah Sattler, 1st Degree
  • Amy Burke, 1st Degree
  • Jerrome Teasdale, 1st Degree

The following week, Master Muleta travelled to Rockhampton for more Masterclasses and a Black Belt grading. The successful new Black belt promotion was:

  • Nikki Olzard, 3rd Degree

new black belts rockhampton

The next round of Black Belt exams and Masterclasses with Master Muleta will be held in Canberra, ACT over the weekend on 8-10th, July 2022.

Those interested in attending can REGISTER HERE

 

To book your ITF Black Belt testing or ITF Masterclass with Master Michael Muleta for your school CONTACT US

ITF Sparring zoom

ITF Sparring Videos

ITF Sparring Videos

ITF Sparring Michael Muleta

We are pleased to feature a series of videos from our recent ITF Sparring Seminar on zoom, with Master Michael Muleta and Sabum Justin Chin.

We’ve released the first couple of videos here, and will be releasing more over the next couple of weeks.

If you want to get your first, directly to your inbox, please support by subscribing to our video channel, and leave us a like if you found the video useful.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR VIDEO CHANNEL

The seminar was aimed at those new to ITF Sparring, but also has many valuable tips and explanations for those who have been in the ring a few times.

Instructors may also find it helpful, with ideas of how to explain various concepts.

Videos include warm ups, rules, strategies and techniques.

To see the rest, subscribe to our video channel

 

To organize a seminar for your school or organization, either in person (when possible) or via zoom, be sure to contact us.

Seminar topics may range from:

  • Fundamentals and Technical Training
  • ITF Patterns
  • ITF Sparring
  • Self Defense
  • Philosophy, Ethics
  • Tips for running a school or organization
  • Public Speaking, topic of your choice
  • Health and Fitness related (training, nutrition, motivation etc)

Check out some of our other recent Zoom workshops

winners United ITF Online Nationals

ITF Online Nationals 2021

Online Nationals 2021

united itf online

 

With much of the country still in lockdown, and interstate borders closed, our executive committee have taken the decision to make our annual Australian Championships the 2021 ITF Online Nationals.

The event is open to all ITF practitioners, regardless off age, rank or affiliation.

We ask all instructors to do their best to support this event with as many enthusiastic students as possible.

As it is now an online nationals, and after the wonderful support of our previous online events, we also welcome international participants to take part.

Events will include:

  • Individual Patterns
  • Team Patterns (3 people – mixed gender is ok)
  • Self Defense (against 2 attackers, any age)
  • Multi Breaking

REGISTER HERE

Medals will be posted out to head instructors of all winners after the final results have been announced.

United ITF Online Nationals

Deadline:

All registrations must be made by Midnight Sunday 31st October, 2021

All videos must be submitted prior to midnight Saturday 6th November, 2021

Results will be announced November 14th

Be sure to read through the event rules

Check out all the action from our 2020 United ITF Online Nationals, with 14 countries taking part, it was an amazing success.

Event sponsored by – First Aid Oz

first Aid oz

general choi hong hi seminar

General Choi Death Anniversary

General Choi Death Anniversary

General Choi Death Anniversary

General Choi Hong Hi – Founder of Taekwon-DoToday marks another General Choi Death Anniversary marking a further year since the passing of the legendary Founder of Taekwon-Do, General Choi Hong Hi.

Grandmasters, Masters and students around the globe will reflect on the General’s influence and continue to keep his legacy alive through the continued promotion and growth of ITF Taekwon-Do

In 2000, General Choi, the Founder of Taekwon-Do, was announced by Taekwon-Do Times magazine, as the most influential martial artist on the century.

General Choi ITF Taekwon-Do

General Choi Hong Hi

Purchase your copy here

General Choi is regarded as the Founder of Taekwon-do and served as President of the International Taekwon-do Federation (I.T.F.) for many years. He sadly passed away in June 2002, after a long battle with cancer.

The Taekwon-Do Founder, General Choi Hong Hi (dec) was born on November 9th, 1918 in the rugged and harsh area of Hwa Dae, Myong Chung District, in what is now D.P.R of Korea . A sickly but willful child, he was expelled from school at the age of 12 for leading a protest against the occupying Japanese.

Later, Choi Hong Hi travelled to Japan, where he studied English, mathematics, and karate. In Kyoto, he met a fellow Korean with the surname Kim, who was a karate instructor and taught Choi this martial art. Choi also learned Shotokan under Gichin Funakoshi,  the founder of Shotokan karate-do, perhaps the most widely known style of karate, and is known as a “father of modern karate”

Just before he had left Korea, Choi had a disagreement with a wrestler named Hu, and the possibility of a future confrontation inspired him to train. In his own words, he said “I would imagine that these were the techniques I would use to defend myself against the wrestler, Mr. Hu, if he did attempt to carry out his promise to tear me limb from limb when I eventually returned to Korea”.

With two years of concentrated training, Choi attained the rank of first degree black belt, and then 2nd Degree soon after. These techniques, together with Taek Kyon (foot techniques), were the forerunners of modern Taekwon-Do.

General Choi’s military career began in 1937, when he was forced, as were all Korean soldiers, to join the Japanese army as a student volunteer, during Japan’s occupancy of Korea.

On his return to Korea in 1942, he hid to avoid conscription into the Japanese Army, but was eventually caught, and in October 1943 began his basic training. He was soon arrested during an attempt to escape and join the underground Korean Liberation Army. Sent to Pyung Yang prison for treason, he was due to have been executed on August 18 1945, three days after Korea was liberated.

While in prison, to alleviate the boredom and keep physically fit, Choi began practicing this art in the solitude of his cell. In a short time, even his cellmate and jailer became students of his.

In 1945, Choi enrolled in the Koreans Military Academy, later to be commissioned to the rank of second lieutenant in 1946. By 1948, he had been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and was a Taekyon instructor for the military troops of the R.O.K. and the American Military Police School based in Korea.

On the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950, Choi hurried back to Korea, where he was ordered to set up an officer training academy. In 1952 he was appointed chief of staff of the First Corps, and soon found himself briefing General Douglas MacArthur, the Supreme Commander of the United Nations troops, on the situation at the front line.

From 1946 to 1951, Choi received promotions to first lieutenant, captain, major, lieutenant colonel, colonel, and then brigadier general, becoming Chief of staff to the Korean Army.

The year 1953 was an eventful one for the General, in both his military career and in the progress of the new martial art. He became the author of the first authoritative book on military intelligence in Korea.
 
He organized and activated the crack 29th Infantry Division at Cheju Island, which eventually became the spearhead of Taekwon-Do in the military and established the Oh Do Kwan (Gym of My Way) where Korean soldiers were trained in General Choi’s new martial art to become the pioneer Taekwon-do instructors. It was also a opportunity to develop the Taekyon and Karate techniques into a modern system of Taekwon-Do.
 
He went on to command Chung Do Kwan (Gym of the Blue Wave), the largest civilian gym in Korea; 

In 1954 Choi was promoted to the rank of Major General.

During his military career, General Choi constantly researched various martial arts, mainly Taekyon, Kung Fu and Karate – drawing from each to create the original version of Taekwon-do.

In 1955 General Choi led the Korean Army’s Taekwon-do demonstration team on a tour of China and Vietnam to promote his form of unarmed combat. After breathtaking displays, both these countries adopted General Choi’s Taekwon-do as an integral part of their soldier’s military training.

In 1961, the Korean Taekwon-do Association was formed with General Choi as its President. During the next few years, he led Taekwon-do demonstration teams throughout the world. In 1965, the South Korean government gave approval to General Choi’s martial art and declared it as Korea’s National martial art.

On March 22nd, 1966, General Choi Hong Hi (dec) formed the International Taekwon-do Federation (I.T.F) in Seoul, Korea. At the time it had associations in Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, West Germany, America, Turkey, Italy, Egypt and Korea. Taekwon-Do was taken up by several foreign armies, and was taught at West Point in America. During the Vietnam War, the Taekwon-Do training of Korean and other foreign soldiers was said to have had a demoralizing effect on the Viet Cong.

In 1971, the South Korean president Park Chung Hee began to use Taekwon-Do as anti-communist political propaganda. Choi, fiercely against this, went into exile in Canada. He continued to teach Taekwon-Do throughout the world, including in North Korea, and in 1974 he organised the first Taekwon-Do world championship in Montreal.

All the while he had to endure death threats from Korean Central Intelligence, attempts to kidnap him and attempts on his life by armed assassins. On one occasion his son and daughter, who had stayed behind in South Korea, were kidnapped and their lives threatened if Choi did not return to Korea. His response was “I choose Taekwon-Do over my son”. They were freed.

General Choi died of cancer on 15 June 2002 in Pyongyang, North Korea. Choi is listed in the Taekwondo Hall of Fame with various titles: “Father of Taekwon-Do,” “Founder and First President of the International Taekwon-Do Federation,” and “Founder of Oh Do Kwan.” Choi is survived by his wife, Choi Joon Hee; his son, Choi Jung Hwa; two daughters, Sunny and Meeyun; and several grandchildren.

We ask that you take a moment on the occasion of General Choi Death Anniversary to reflect on how Taekwon-Do has impacted your own life.

– excerpts from ‘Taekwondo – The Korean Art of Self Defence’ – General Choi Hong Hi

General Choi ITF Coin
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View our General Choi Hong Hi Photo Gallery

 

Sydney, Australia 1993

 

Sunshine Coast, Australia 1995

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