A Defining Moment in Taekwondo History: President Grand Master Rick W. Shin Meets President Grand Master Choi Jung Hwa in Seoul

“This meeting is more than symbolic—it’s a return to our roots and a step forward for all of Taekwondo.” President Grand Master Rick W. Shin, Professional Taekwondo Federation & Kombat Taekwondo.

MASTKD ESPAÑOL

On July 19, 2025, a landmark moment unfolded in Seoul, Korea—the birthplace of Taekwondo—as President Grand Master Rick W. Shin, head of the Professional Taekwondo Federation (PTF) and Kombat Taekwondo, met with President Grand Master Choi Jung Hwa, head of the International Taekwondo Federation (ITF). The meeting marked a powerful gesture of unity between two major global figures in the Taekwondo world.

President Grand Master Choi Jung Hwa is the son of General Choi Hong Hi, the Father and Founder of Taekwondo. In 1955, General Choi officially named and systemized Taekwondo, later establishing the ITF in 1966 to bring Korea’s national discipline to the world. His pioneering vision laid the foundation for one of the most widely practiced martial arts on the planet and ignited a global movement that continues to grow nearly 70 years later.

While the International Taekwondo Federation (ITF) was founded in 1966 by General Choi Hong Hi to establish and spread the original system of Taekwondo worldwide, it wasn’t until many years later, in 1973, that World Taekwondo (then the World Taekwondo Federation) was created in Seoul with a specific focus on developing Taekwondo as a competitive sport. Unlike the ITF, which preserved Taekwondo’s traditional roots, philosophy, and foundational techniques, WT was formed solely to govern the sport side of Taekwondo, particularly for Olympic inclusion. This timeline highlights the enduring impact and precedence of the ITF—and of General Choi’s legacy—as the true origin of Taekwondo.

During their private meeting, President Grand Master Shin and President Grand Master Choi engaged in a meaningful exchange on the past, present, and future of Taekwondo. With the 70th anniversary of the ITF approaching in 2026, the discussion emphasized not only reflection on Taekwondo’s origins but also a shared vision for its continued global advancement.

President Grand Master Rick W. Shin conveyed his deep respect for General Choi’s legacy as the Father and Founder of Taekwondo, and shared with President Grand Master Choi that over 60% of Kombat Taekwondo’s global membership—spanning 121 countries—originates from the ITF style, a testament to the ITF’s deep influence within both traditional and professional spheres.

In response, President Grand Master Choi Jung Hwa expressed his support for both Kombat Taekwondo and the Professional Taekwondo Federation, applauding their efforts to create a platform that promotes Taekwondo athletes at both the professional and amateur levels.

In a powerful show of solidarity, PTF and Kombat Taekwondo reaffirmed their support for the International Taekwondo Federation, recognizing the ITF’s unmatched role in preserving Taekwondo’s roots while continuing to inspire future generations.

This historic encounter also delivered a broader message to the entire global Taekwondo family—regardless of style, affiliation, or federation:
True strength in Taekwondo lies not in division, but in shared history, mutual respect, and a common purpose.

Both leaders pledged to continue working together to advance Taekwondo globally, honoring tradition while embracing innovation and ensuring opportunities for practitioners at all levels.

In a heartfelt tribute, President Grand Master Shin stated:

“General Choi Hong Hi is the Father and Founder of Taekwondo. Without him, there would be no Taekwondo today—no World Taekwondo, no Kombat Taekwondo, and no other styles that exist around the world. We are all walking the path he created. His legacy lives on in every dojang, every instructor, and every practitioner who wears the Taekwondo uniform.”

This historic meeting in Seoul marks not just a diplomatic exchange—but a defining moment for Taekwondo’s future. It stands as a reminder that the true power of Taekwondo comes from honoring its roots while uniting to shape its global destiny.