ITF Taekwon-Do and Its Many Divisions: History, Splits, and the Current Landscape

Since the death of its founder, General Choi Hong Hi, the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) has undergone one of the most significant fragmentations in modern martial arts. What began as a single organization has transformed into a style now shared by multiple federations, many of which operate independently and often do not recognize one another, each claiming to carry forward the legacy of traditional Taekwon-Do.

The ITF was founded by General Choi in 1966 and, under his leadership, expanded globally. However, following his passing in 2002, disputes over succession and representation fractured the federation.

Since then, the ITF has ceased to function as a unified body and has instead become a martial arts style practiced under various organizations. Today, these organizations share the same technical system, name, Korean terminology, and tul (patterns), but differ in administrative, organizational, and philosophical aspects.

How Many ITFs Exist Today?

The answer depends on how the question is approached:

Journalistic Perspective (International Influence)

From a media standpoint, including MASTKD and other specialized outlets, attention is usually given to the organizations with real international reach and competitive presence. These include:

1. ITF headquartered in Vienna, Austria, led by Ri Yong Son. Considered by many the «official» ITF due to its ties with the North Korean government and the country’s National Olympic Committee.
2. ITF Organization, based in Inzell, Germany, led by Paul Weiler. With a strong presence in Europe, it has grown into one of the most active ITF branches.
3. ITF under Choi Jung Hwa, based in the United Kingdom and led by General Choi’s son. It claims to be the direct heir of the founder’s legacy.
4. ITF Union, directed by Don Dalton from Ireland. Known for its inclusive philosophy and global event growth.
5. Unified ITF, based in the U.S. and led by Hwang Kwang Sung, a direct student of General Choi.

Encyclopedic Perspective

Wikipedia, on the other hand, lists a total of seven organizations under the «ITF» name, without distinguishing between those with global impact and others of more local or recent origin. These are:

• Traditional ITF | President: Ri Yong Son | Headquarters: Vienna, Austria
• ITF Organization | President: Paul Weiler | Headquarters: Inzell, Germany
• ITF Administration | President: Choi Jung Hwa | Headquarters: Harlington, United Kingdom
• Chan-hun ITF | President: Ken Phap Lu | Headquarters: Ottawa, Canada
• ITF Union | President: Don Dalton | Headquarters: Ireland
• Unified Taekwondo | President: Hwang Kwang Sung | Headquarters: Colchester, United States
• ITTAF | President: Mario Pons Botella | Headquarters: Alcoy, Spain

The difference between both perspectives lies in relevance and media coverage: while specialized journalism prioritizes organizations with real-world competitive activity, Wikipedia takes a broader approach, listing any entity that calls itself ITF regardless of size or external recognition.

What Do They Share—and What Sets Them Apart?

Despite the splits, all ITF organizations agree on key elements:

• The use of General Choi’s tul (patterns).
• A traditional martial arts technical focus.
• A hierarchical belt and rank structure.
• The Five Tenets of Taekwon-Do: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, Indomitable Spirit.

The main differences stem from:

• Administration and governance models.
• Event policies and competition rules.
• Mutual recognition of ranks and certifications.

Final Thoughts

More than two decades after General Choi’s passing, ITF Taekwon-Do remains alive and globally practiced—but also fragmented. Some organizations work toward unity, others emphasize independence, yet all stem from the same martial root that keeps the founder’s spirit alive.

At MASTKD, we will continue to cover the evolution of these organizations, their events, leaders, and challenges, always with a critical eye and a firm commitment to the global development of Taekwon-Do.

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Claudio Aranda

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