World Taekwondo Pays Tribute to Italian Taekwondo Pioneer Grand Master Young Ghil Park

President Choue was joined by World Taekwondo Vice President Jinbang Yang, Vice President Driss El Hilali, Council Members Jay Warwick and Ahmed Al-Zeyoudi, Secretary General Jeongkang Seo, Kukkiwon President Ung-suk Yun, as well as the World Taekwondo Performance Team.

Together, they visited Grand Master Park’s resting place on the outskirts of Rome, laying flowers and observing a moment of silence in his honour.

Members of Grand Master Park’s family, including his wife and son, also joined the commemorative visit.

Grand Master Park passed away in December 2024, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that transformed Taekwondo in Italy and inspired generations around the world.

A dedicated leader since the early years of World Taekwondo following its founding in 1973, Grand Master Park played a pivotal role in shaping the sport’s international development. In 2006, he served as Competition chairman of the inaugural World Taekwondo Poomsae Championships in Seoul, Korea, helping to establish Poomsae as a recognised international competition discipline. In 2017, he was appointed as Technical Delegate of the first-ever World Taekwondo Beach Championships in Rhodes, Greece.

Standing before the grave, President Choue reflected on Grand Master Park’s lasting impact.

“We lost a truly precious figure who devoted his life to pioneering Taekwondo in Italy and advancing the globalisation of our sport,” said President Choue. “His passion for Taekwondo, his sacrifice, service and humility will never be forgotten.”

He added: “It’s 60 years since Taekwondo first came to Italy, and 60 years since Grand Master Park first arrived carrying nothing but his dobok and a dream. Though he is no longer with us, he made this historic milestone possible and the celebrations of this anniversary are a testament to his life and vision.”

Inscribed on his gravestone are the words “GRAN MAESTRO PARK YOUNG GHIL”.

About The Author