Tajikistan’s President Emomali Rahmon visited Kukkiwon on September 17, 2026, accompanied by government officials. He was welcomed by Kukkiwon President Yun Ung-suk and Vice President Lee Jong-gab before receiving an honorary 9th Dan certificate.

The visit carried institutional significance beyond the presentation of the award: Rahmon traveled to Kukkiwon’s headquarters as part of his official schedule in South Korea.

By hosting a head of state, Kukkiwon provided a setting to promote closer ties between the two countries through Taekwondo.

A Reception at the World Taekwondo Headquarters

According to Kukkiwon’s press release, Rahmon arrived at 10:30 a.m. and was welcomed at the west entrance. He then accompanied Yun to the Central Training Hall, where he watched a performance by the Kukkiwon Taekwondo Demonstration Team.

Following the demonstration, Yun presented him with a dobok and the honorary 9th Dan certificate. During the ceremony, he asked the president to continue supporting exchanges between South Korea and Tajikistan through Taekwondo and to cooperate in expanding participation in the Central Asian country.

In his welcoming remarks, Yun thanked the delegation for visiting and expressed his hope that cooperation through Taekwondo would contribute to peace and prosperity.

An Honor Symbolizing Friendship

Rahmon thanked Kukkiwon for the distinction, describing it as a reflection of the relationship between the two countries.

“I believe this honor is a testament to the unwavering friendship between our two countries and an honor shared by the people of Tajikistan,” he said, according to Kukkiwon’s press release.

The president also wished the institution continued growth and success in achieving its goals.

The 9th Dan certificate is honorary. It represents institutional recognition rather than a technical rank earned through an examination.

Taekwondo on the Diplomatic Agenda

The Kukkiwon visit took place during Rahmon’s official trip to South Korea, which included a meeting with President Lee Jae-myung on September 16.

In that context, the reception can be viewed as an example of diplomacy through Taekwondo: an opportunity to connect the institution’s leadership with a head of state and discuss the sport’s development in his country.

The press release conveys an interest in cooperation but does not announce any signed agreements or specific programs. The encounter’s principal significance was institutional, centered on the presidential visit and the exchange of messages about Taekwondo’s growth.

Before concluding his visit, Rahmon signed the guestbook and joined the demonstration team for a commemorative photograph.

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