SPORT DIPLOMACY

Embassy of South Korea hosts South African Taekwondo Ambassador’s Cup Championship

KCC - Jaeil Lee

19 October 2023

Last Saturday, on 14 October, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in South Africa, in collaboration with TuksTaekwondo, and the South African Taekwondo Federation, held the 14th Ambassador’s Cup Taekwondo Championship at the Rembrandt Hall, University of Pretoria.

Approximately 200 Taekwondo trainees participated and competed to showcase their individual skills in three categories: Poomsae (pattern of movements), Gyeorugi (sparring), and High Kick. This year’s edition was structured as a club competition, emphasizing unity and promoting club activities among South African Taekwondo clubs. In addition to individual medals, three trophies were awarded to the outstanding clubs based on the combined score they earned from their trainees’ performance in each competition.

The opening ceremony was attended by South Korean Ambassador Chull-joo Park, Director of TuksSports Steven Ball, and President of the South African Taekwondo Federation David Kok, among many others. The ceremony was highlighted by a special performance of the Ramokoka Wonkwang Taekwondo Club trainees, who showcased the traditional Korean folk music ‘Samulnori.’

During the ceremony, Ambassador Chull-joo Park reiterated the embassy’s commitment to further promote and support the Taekwondo activities in South Africa. He emphasized the importance of youth engagement, stating, “I urge all present to continue supporting and encouraging Taekwondo participation, especially among the youth. They are the future of this sport, and their dedication and passion will shape the legacy of Taekwondo in our communities.”