What is Taekwon-Do?

Taekwon-Do is the art of hand and foot. Tae means to kick, Kwon means to punch and Do means the way. It is the martial art of unarmed combat.

Who created Taekwon-Do?

General Choi Hong Hi, the father and founder of the original Martial Art Taekwon-Do was born November 9th, 1918 in the rugged and harsh area of Hwa Dae, Myong Chun District in what is now D.P.R Korea (North Korea). Taekwon-Do was officially named and created April 11th 1955. Choi dedicated his life to his art, and he left a martial arts world in mourning on 15th June, 2002.

He left his last words to the members of the ITF Executive Board and the following is an excerpt

“… I am the happiest man who has done everything for Taekwon-Do in my life. It is time to introduce Mr. Chang Ung proudly in public. Please carry on propaganda Mr. Chang Ung is the tallest and in the highest position in the ITF. I have always worried about a successor to the president; however, my mind is set for there is Mr. Chang Ung.”

The Special Congress of the ITF was held in the People’s Palace of Culture in Pyongyang, DPR Korea September 2002. Here, the Presidents and representatives from 46 national TKD federations unanimously elected Mr. Chang Ung, member of the International Olympic Committee, as president of the ITF. The participants at the Special Congress congratulated Mr. Chang Ung, the President with warm clapping.

What is ITF?

I.T.F stands for International Taekwon-Do Federation. It is the first original parent body of Taekwon-Do, set up by Founder of Taekwon-Do, General Choi Hong Hi. The ITF was first formed in 1966 starting with 9 member countries.

What about ITF World Champs? Can my son/daughter compete in local and international competitions?

Junior, Senior and Veteran World Champs are every year, 1 year apart from each other. You must be 14-17 to compete in juniors, 18-39 to compete in Seniors and 40+ for veterans. You must hold a valid ITF 1st - 6th DAN certificate. Your son/daughter will be selected from previous records and national tournaments based on success.

What about Olympics? Is ITF Taekwon-Do in the Olympics?

The ITF President is a member of International Olympic Committee, where only ITF New Zealand members will be allowed to compete in the future Olympics. There is currently an ITF & WTF merger in place. General Choi Hong Hi’s Last Words incorporated the idea of Taekwon-Do being ONE and in the Olympics. Recently, an ITF delegation visited the Sports Accord HQ. Click here for the detailed news info.

© 2012 International Taekwon-Do Federation of New Zealand, Inc