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Master Choi Hong Hi – A Taekwondo Legend 

The Father of Taekwondo

General Choi Hong Hi is widely regarded as the principal founder of modern Taekwondo. A decorated military officer in the South Korean army, his vision was to create a new martial art that would be uniquely Korean, blending the hard, linear techniques of Japanese Karate with the soft, flowing movements of traditional Korean martial arts like Taekkyeon. His efforts culminated in the formal naming of Taekwondo in 1955, an art designed for self-defense, physical fitness, and the development of moral character. This was a crucial step in establishing the art's identity and separating it from its Japanese influences.

Military and Political Influence

As a high-ranking general and later a diplomat, General Choi used his political and military influence to spread Taekwondo globally. In the 1960s, he led numerous demonstration teams around the world, showcasing Taekwondo's power and precision to international audiences. This diplomatic work was instrumental in planting the seeds of Taekwondo across dozens of countries, from Southeast Asia to Europe and North America. However, his strong political views eventually led to a division within the art itself, a schism that would have a lasting impact on its development.

The Birth of the ITF

n 1966, due to growing political tensions, General Choi left South Korea and founded the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) in Seoul, which was later moved to Canada. He dedicated the rest of his life to promoting Taekwondo through the ITF, establishing a unified system of patterns and terminology. He authored the seminal 15-volume Encyclopedia of Taekwon-Do, which remains a key text for ITF practitioners worldwide. His tireless work ensured that his vision of Taekwondo as a single, unified martial art would continue to be taught and practiced long after his death.

A Lasting and Divisive Legacy

General Choi's legacy is both celebrated and debated. He is revered by his students and countless practitioners for his unyielding dedication and his vision of Taekwondo as a tool for personal and moral growth. However, the political division that created the ITF and the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF, now World Taekwondo) led to two distinct styles of the art, each with its own focus and philosophy. Despite this, there is no denying that his passion and tireless efforts were instrumental in making Taekwondo one of the most popular and widely practiced martial arts in the world. He laid the foundation for every practitioner who came after him. 

Jhoon Rhee: Father of American Taekwondo 

His impact went far beyond simply teaching techniques. Rhee was an innovator, known for his relentless focus on safety in training. He is credited with inventing martial arts safety equipment, including protective headgear and padded sparring gear, which revolutionized how martial artists could practice full-contact techniques without injury.

Rhee's school became a hub for a new generation of American practitioners, and his influence grew through notable students, including U.S. congressmen and senators. He also forged friendships with other martial arts icons, most famously Bruce Lee, with whom he exchanged ideas on philosophy and technique. Another close friend and student was Muhammad Ali, who trained with Rhee to improve his footwork. 

Through his leadership, innovations, and dedication to both physical and mental discipline, Jhoon Rhee established Taekwondo as a popular and accessible martial art in the United States, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire millions. 

The Legend of Grandmaster Nam Tae Hi:

Grandmaster Nam Tae Hi is a foundational figure in the history of Taekwon-Do, often regarded as one of its most important early pioneers. As a high-ranking officer in the South Korean Army, he played a crucial role alongside General Choi Hong Hi in developing and promoting the art in its formative years. His expertise and powerful demonstrations were instrumental in gaining official recognition for Taekwon-Do. 

One of Nam Tae Hi's most significant contributions came in 1954, during a martial arts demonstration for President Syngman Rhee of South Korea. It was here that Nam Tae Hi captivated the audience with a remarkable display of his skill, reportedly breaking 13 roof tiles with a single, devastating fore-fist strike. This impressive feat so deeply impressed President Rhee that it led to his endorsement of the martial art, a pivotal moment that cemented the name "Taekwon-Do" and paved the way for its official adoption as the Korean military's standard martial art. 

Beyond this famous demonstration, Nam Tae Hi's legacy is defined by his influence as an instructor. As a senior member of the Oh Do Kwan, one of the original martial arts schools, he trained many of the art's first generation of masters and pioneers. He was also a key figure in introducing Taekwon-Do to other countries, including Vietnam, as a member of early demonstration teams. His technical skill, combined with his dedication to the art's development, established him as a true grandmaster and a core architect of modern Taekwon-Do. 

The Legends Of Hwang Kee:

Grandmaster Hwang Kee, a monumental figure in the history of Korean martial arts, is revered as the founder of the influential Moo Duk Kwan organization. His legacy is deeply intertwined with the development of what is now known as Tang Soo Do and Soo Bahk Do. Born in 1914, his martial journey began at the age of seven after he witnessed a master of the ancient Korean art of Taekkyon. This single event ignited a lifelong passion that would lead him to become a true "warrior-scholar." 

Hwang Kee's importance lies in his independent and scholarly approach to martial arts. While other Korean "kwans" (schools) were founded on styles heavily influenced by Japanese Karate, Hwang Kee sought to uncover and preserve Korea's own unique fighting heritage. His extensive travels and research led him to study Chinese martial arts, which he blended with techniques from the ancient Korean arts of Taekkyon and Soo Bahk. This fusion gave birth to his art, originally named Hwa Soo Do, which he later changed to Tang Soo Do and eventually Soo Bahk Do. 

His most significant contribution to the broader Taekwondo landscape lies in his principled refusal to join the unification movement that created the modern Taekwondo we know today. In the 1960s, as a political push was made to consolidate all Korean martial arts under a single name, Taekwondo, Hwang Kee chose to maintain the distinct identity and rich heritage of his Moo Duk Kwan. This decision, while controversial at the time, ensured that a separate lineage of Korean martial arts with unique philosophies and techniques survived. His work preserved a vital part of Korean martial history, ensuring that a path focused on both traditional forms and a deeper philosophical "Moo Do" (martial way) would continue to thrive alongside the more sport-oriented Taekwondo. This dedication to preserving the purity and integrity of his art is his lasting legacy. 

Other great pioneers:

The legends of Rhee ki ha:

Grandmaster Rhee Ki Ha, often hailed as the "Father of British Taekwon-Do," is a monumental figure in the history of the martial art. As a first-generation student of the founder, General Choi Hong Hi, he was described by the General himself as the "best ever student of Taekwon-Do." 

Born in Seoul, Korea, in 1938, Rhee's journey in martial arts began at a young age, starting with Judo from his father and later learning Karate from a schoolteacher. His formal training in Taekwon-Do started in the Korean army's 35th Infantry Division. His dedication and skill quickly set him apart, and he was soon appointed as an instructor to the Special Forces and even to American military personnel. This early experience prepared him for a life dedicated to spreading the art globally. 

In 1967, Grandmaster Rhee took a bold step, leaving his homeland to come to the United Kingdom at the invitation of former students. He initially intended to stay for only two years, but his passion for Taekwon-Do led him to settle there permanently. This decision forever changed the landscape of martial arts in Europe. He founded the United Kingdom Taekwon-Do Association (UKTA) in 1967 and the Republic of Ireland Taekwon-Do Association (RITA) in 1972, serving as a pillar for the art's growth and development. His tireless efforts and leadership earned him the title of "Father of European Taekwon-Do." 

His dedication and mastery were formally recognized on July 1, 1997, when he became the first person promoted to the rank of 9th Dan by General Choi, solidifying his legacy as a true pioneer and master of the art. Grandmaster Rhee's commitment to the core principles of Taekwon-Do and his unwavering loyalty to General Choi's vision have made him one of the most respected and senior figures in the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF). 

The Legend of Won Kuk Lee:

Grandmaster Won Kuk Lee, a foundational figure in the development of modern Taekwondo, is best known as the founder of Chung Do Kwan, or the "School of the Blue Wave." Born in Seoul, Korea, in 1907, his early life was marked by the Japanese occupation, which prohibited the open practice of martial arts. Despite this, he developed a deep interest in the arts, particularly the traditional Korean kicking art of Taekkyon. 

After Korea's liberation in 1945, Lee returned to his homeland. In 1944, he received permission to open the first kwan, or martial arts school, in Korea, which he named Chung Do Kwan. The name was inspired by his time meditating by a beach, symbolizing the quiet serenity of the waves that can unleash immense power when disturbed. He taught a style he called Tang Soo Do, which was heavily influenced by the Shotokan Karate he had mastered. The Chung Do Kwan quickly became the largest and most influential martial arts school in Korea, with a strong emphasis on powerful kicks and basic techniques. Lee's popularity and connections led to him teaching at the Korean Police Academy, and he was even offered a political position, which he refused. 

Won Kuk Lee's legacy is immense and far-reaching. He was a crucial link between traditional Japanese martial arts and the emergence of a distinctly Korean one. Many of his students became influential masters in their own right, going on to found their own kwans or playing key roles in the unification of Korean martial arts. His school was instrumental in the efforts that culminated in the official adoption of the name "Taekwondo" in 1955. 

The legend of Park jong soo:

Grandmaster Park Jong Soo: A Global Pioneer of Taekwondo

Grandmaster Park Jong Soo (1941–2021) was a legendary figure and one of the twelve original masters assembled by the Korea Taekwon-Do Association (KTA) to help spread the art worldwide. A dedicated student of the founder of ITF Taekwondo, General Choi Hong Hi, Grandmaster Park’s journey began in his native Chung-Nam, Korea. His martial arts prowess was honed during a distinguished career in the South Korean military, where he quickly earned a reputation for his exceptional skill and physical power, which he would carry throughout his life.

In the mid-1960s, Grandmaster Park became a key member of the elite demonstration teams that toured the globe on a goodwill mission, showcasing the new martial art to international audiences. This period of intense travel and demonstration was crucial to Taekwondo’s early global expansion. In 1965, he was invited to be the coach for the German Taekwon-Do Association, and the following year he moved to the Netherlands, where he was instrumental in founding the Netherlands Taekwon-Do Association. His extensive travels and high-profile demonstrations solidified his reputation as a dynamic and highly effective master.

His most profound legacy, however, was forged in Canada. In 1968, he made the pivotal decision to emigrate to Toronto, where he became known as the "Father of Canadian Taekwon-Do." He dedicated the remainder of his life to building a strong foundation for Taekwondo in the country, establishing numerous schools in the Greater Toronto Area. He played a leading role in the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF), eventually becoming one of the most respected and senior masters within the organization, holding the rank of 9th Dan. Grandmaster Park’s enduring influence lives on through the countless students and instructors who continue his legacy of powerful, disciplined, and authentic Taekwondo. His pioneering efforts laid the foundation for countless schools and practitioners, making him a true architect of Taekwondo's global expansion.

Legend of Kim Bok Man:

Grandmaster Kim Bok Man: The "Grandfather of Taekwondo"

Grandmaster Kim Bok Man (1934–2021), often referred to as the "Grandfather of modern Taekwondo" by his students, was a pivotal figure in the martial art's early development and global propagation. His journey began at the age of seven when he started training in the ancient Korean martial art of taekkyeon. Following his enlistment in the South Korean Army, his martial prowess was sharpened, and by 1955, he had joined forces with General Choi Hong Hi, the recognized founder of ITF Taekwondo.

For years, Grandmaster Kim was an essential part of General Choi's pioneering efforts to spread Taekwondo beyond Korea's borders. He was a key member of the first Taekwondo demonstration teams, traveling extensively throughout Southeast Asia. His influence was foundational in introducing and establishing Taekwondo in numerous countries, including Vietnam, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Singapore, where he trained military personnel and civilians alike.

One of his most significant contributions was his collaboration with General Choi in the creation and refinement of the Ch'ang Hon patterns (tuls), which form the technical backbone of ITF Taekwondo. From 1962 to 1964, he worked alongside General Choi to develop 15 of these foundational patterns. This collaboration was crucial in giving the art its structured and systematic curriculum. Over the years, due to differing visions and principles, Grandmaster Kim would eventually part ways with General Choi, going on to found his own martial art style, Chun Kuhn Do, in the late 1990s. His legacy is one of a true martial arts innovator, a dedicated teacher, and a tireless ambassador who helped lay the groundwork for Taekwondo's worldwide popularity.

Female Grandmasters – Pioneers and Leaders

Women have played an important role in Taekwondo’s growth, inspiring countless students and breaking barriers in martial arts. From early pioneers who helped spread the art internationally to modern masters continuing the legacy, female grandmasters have ensured that Taekwondo is inclusive, strong, and respected worldwide. Their dedication, skill, and leadership have left a lasting impact on both male and female martial artists alike. Below are notable female grandmasters, recognized for their dedication, skill, and lasting contributions to Taekwondo:

The legends of Rhee myung ja:

A Pioneering Force in a Male-Dominated World

Rhee Myung Ja is a powerful and respected figure in the world of Taekwondo, recognized as one of the most significant female grandmasters in the art's history. While many of the early male pioneers received widespread recognition for their demonstrations and tours, Grandmaster Rhee's influence was often quietly but profoundly felt through her dedication to teaching and building the art's foundations on a global scale. She proved that the strength of Taekwondo was not just in its power but in its ability to empower all who practiced it.

Born in South Korea during the formative years of Taekwondo, Rhee Myung Ja began her training under some of the most influential figures of the original kwans. She trained with a level of dedication and discipline that quickly set her apart, earning her a reputation for her exceptional technique and indomitable spirit. While facing the immense challenges of breaking into a martial arts community that was largely male-dominated, she proved her skill and resilience at every turn. Her early achievements and deep understanding of Taekwondo's principles solidified her place among the art's elite practitioners.

Rather than pursuing a path of high-profile demonstrations, Grandmaster Rhee focused her energy on building a lasting legacy through her students. She established her own schools, where she meticulously trained a new generation of martial artists. Her teachings went beyond mere physical form, emphasizing the five tenets of Taekwondo: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and an indomitable spirit. This holistic approach to instruction helped her build a global network of dedicated practitioners who carried her philosophy across borders. She is a true master of expansion, not through spectacle, but through the patient and unwavering development of countless successful instructors and students.

Today, Grandmaster Rhee Myung Ja stands as a timeless source of inspiration. Her story is a testament to the fact that true strength lies in a combination of skill, character, and a tireless commitment to one's art. She is revered by her students and the wider Taekwondo community for her quiet power and for paving the way for countless other women to achieve excellence in martial arts. Her enduring impact is felt in every dojang where her students teach, ensuring that her legacy will continue for generations to come.

The Legend of Young Hee Kimm:

A Trailblazer in a New Land

Grandmaster Yeon Hee Kimm is widely celebrated as one of the first female pioneers to introduce Taekwondo to the Western world. Hailing from South Korea, she arrived in the United Kingdom in the 1960s with a mission to spread the art. In an era when female martial artists were rarely given leadership roles, she broke barriers with her exceptional skill and unwavering spirit. She became a source of inspiration for countless students, both male and female, proving that mastery of Taekwondo transcends gender. Her early work in the UK laid a crucial foundation for the art's popularity across Europe.

The Journey to American Shores

After her successful work in the United Kingdom, Grandmaster Kimm moved to the United States, where she continued her tireless efforts to establish Taekwondo. She settled in the Washington, D.C. area, where she became a cornerstone of the martial arts community. Through her leadership, she helped establish a generation of instructors and a new wave of practitioners. Her dedication to the five tenets of Taekwondo—courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit—was evident in her teaching style, which focused on developing both the mind and body of her students. She earned the respect of her peers and became a role model for aspiring martial artists everywhere.

A Legacy of Integrity and Scholarship

Beyond her physical skill, Grandmaster Kimm is also renowned as a scholar and a historian of Taekwondo. She has dedicated her life to preserving the art's rich heritage and has authored multiple books that are considered essential texts for serious practitioners. Her research and writing have provided invaluable insights into Taekwondo's history, forms, and philosophy, ensuring that the art's traditional values are not lost to the modern world. This scholarly work has cemented her reputation not just as a powerful practitioner but as a true guardian of the art's cultural and historical legacy.

An Enduring Inspiration

Grandmaster Kimm's enduring legacy is a powerful one. As a 9th Dan grandmaster, she has dedicated over fifty years of her life to the global dissemination of Taekwondo. Her journey is a testament to the strength and resilience required to achieve greatness and to build a lasting legacy. She is revered for her integrity, her commitment to her students, and her role in paving the way for future generations of women in martial arts. She stands as a living example of the indomitable spirit that she so passionately teaches.

The Legend Of Young Hee Park:

Grandmaster Yeon Hee Park

Rank: Grandmaster (9th Dan) Nationality: South Korean / American Affiliation: Pan American Moo Duk Kwan Association

A Visionary and Instructor

Grandmaster Yeon Hee Park is a revered and highly influential figure in the world of Taekwondo, celebrated for her profound contributions to the art's growth in North America. Alongside her husband, Grandmaster Jung Tae Park, she played a vital role in the early days of the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF). She wasn't just a practitioner; she was a visionary instructor who helped shape the first generation of American Taekwondo students. Her dedication to teaching and her technical precision inspired countless individuals to pursue their black belts and, eventually, become instructors themselves.

Building a Global Legacy

Grandmaster Park's journey was instrumental in establishing Taekwondo as a respected martial art in the Western world. She traveled extensively with her husband, conducting seminars and demonstrations that showcased the beauty and power of the art. Her work was crucial in building a robust network of schools and associations across the United States and Canada. She proved that a martial art's strength isn't just in its techniques but in its ability to build strong communities and foster an international family of practitioners. Her efforts helped solidify Taekwondo's place in the martial arts landscape.

A Master of Philosophy and Form

Beyond her role in the global expansion of Taekwondo, Grandmaster Park is also highly respected for her deep understanding of the art's philosophy. She teaches not just the physical movements but the core tenets of courtesy, integrity, and perseverance. Her forms are renowned for their grace, power, and flawless execution, serving as a masterclass for students of all levels. She has always emphasized the mental and spiritual aspects of Taekwondo, making it a true path to self-improvement. Her teaching style has left an indelible mark on thousands of students who continue to carry her legacy forward.

An Enduring Symbol of Excellence

Today, as a 9th Dan grandmaster, Yeon Hee Park stands as an enduring symbol of excellence and a true pioneer. Her life's work is a testament to the power of dedication and the ability to overcome challenges with an indomitable spirit. She is a revered role model for all martial artists, especially women, who aspire to reach the highest levels of the art. Her influence is felt in every dojang and every student who has been touched by her teachings, and her legacy is a living history of Taekwondo in the West.

Other Great female pioneers:

The legend of brenda j. sell:

Grandmaster Brenda J. Sell

Rank: Grandmaster (9th Dan) Nationality: American Affiliation: U.S. Taekwondo Han Moo Kwan Association

An American Pioneer

Grandmaster Brenda J. Sell is a landmark figure in the history of American martial arts. She is widely recognized as one of the first non-Korean female grandmasters in the world, a testament to her decades of unwavering dedication and exceptional skill. She began her training in an era when the martial arts community was almost entirely male-dominated, facing and overcoming significant barriers to rise through the ranks. Her perseverance not only led her to achieve the highest rank in Taekwondo but also paved the way for countless women and men to follow in her footsteps, proving that passion and hard work transcend gender and nationality.

A Legacy of Leadership

Throughout her career, Grandmaster Sell has been a force for positive change in the martial arts community. She founded and leads the U.S. Taekwondo Han Moo Kwan Association, an organization dedicated to upholding the traditional values and integrity of the art. Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping the careers of thousands of students and instructors across the United States. She has been a fixture at international tournaments and seminars, where her technical expertise and philosophical insights have earned her the respect of peers from around the globe. Her commitment to quality and ethical practice has made her a trusted and influential leader.

Beyond the Dojo

Grandmaster Sell's influence extends well beyond the physical movements of Taekwondo. She is a powerful advocate for the martial arts as a vehicle for personal development, emphasizing the importance of discipline, respect, and self-confidence. Through her teachings and public appearances, she inspires students to apply the principles of the dojo to their everyday lives. She is a dedicated mentor who believes in nurturing not just powerful kicks and punches but strong character and a positive mindset. Her work is a reminder that the true strength of a martial artist lies in their ability to lead by example.

An Enduring Icon

As a 9th Dan Grandmaster, Brenda J. Sell stands as a living icon of perseverance and excellence. Her journey from a young student to one of the most respected masters in the world is a powerful narrative of determination. She has spent her life dedicated to preserving the integrity of Taekwondo while simultaneously making it more accessible to people of all backgrounds. Her legacy is a beacon of inspiration, and she continues to be a guiding light for a new generation of martial artists who aspire to reach the highest levels of achievement and respect.

The legend of Myong Suk Namkung Mayes:

Grandmaster Myong Suk Namkung-Mayes

Rank: Grandmaster (9th Dan) Nationality: South Korean / American Affiliation: U.S. Taekwondo Center

A Living Legend

Grandmaster Myong Suk Namkung-Mayes is a true pioneer whose journey began in the early days of Taekwondo, when the art was taught almost exclusively to men in the Korean military. Defying these barriers, she became one of the first Korean women to earn a black belt in 1964 and quickly established herself as a phenomenon. Her skill was so exceptional that she earned the rare distinction of being accepted into both the Korean National Kyorugi and National Demonstration teams simultaneously. Her home country of South Korea has officially recognized her as a "Living Legend" for her historic contributions to the art.

The Bridge to the West

Following in the footsteps of her pioneering male counterparts, Grandmaster Mayes brought her unmatched expertise to the United States. She established the U.S. Taekwondo Center in North Carolina in 1987, creating a hub of traditional and authentic Taekwondo training. Her move was a critical moment for the spread of the martial art in America, as she became a vital link to the art's Korean roots for countless American students. She has served as a mentor and guide to thousands of students, many of whom have gone on to become successful masters themselves.

Olympic Legacy

Grandmaster Mayes's leadership and technical knowledge extended to the highest levels of international competition. She was a coach for the U.S. Olympic Taekwondo team at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, a testament to her standing as a world-class instructor. This role solidified her reputation as not just an incredible practitioner, but also as a highly respected leader capable of guiding athletes on the world's biggest stage. Her ability to master both the competitive and philosophical sides of Taekwondo is a rare feat, and her legacy is one of the most influential in the sport.

An Enduring Inspiration

Having achieved the highest rank of 9th Dan, Grandmaster Myong Suk Namkung-Mayes is a symbol of what is possible when talent meets uncompromising dedication. She took over 43 years to achieve her highest rank, an example of patience and mastery in an era where quick promotions are common. Her career is a powerful reminder that true mastery is a lifelong journey. She continues to teach and inspire, serving as a beacon for all who seek to walk the path of a true martial artist.

The Legend of Tammy Harvey-Stauber:

A Trailblazer in the ATA

Grandmaster Tammy Harvey-Stauber's career is a powerful narrative of pioneering achievement within the American Taekwondo Association (ATA). Her journey began in 1973, and she quickly rose through the ranks, breaking new ground at every turn. At just 16 years old, she became the youngest certified instructor in the ATA, and a year later, she became the first female to own and operate a martial arts school in the organization. Her early accomplishments set a precedent for women to take on leadership roles and proved that age and gender were no match for her passion and dedication.

A Legacy of Leadership and Excellence

For decades, Grandmaster Harvey-Stauber has been a dominant force in the ATA. She competed and excelled in a time when women's divisions were less common, even competing in the men's division to earn her 5th-degree black belt. This unwavering drive to test herself against the best, regardless of gender, earned her immense respect from her peers. In 1994, she became the ATA's first female Master and was inducted into the ATA Hall of Fame in 1996. Her leadership extends beyond her own achievements, as she has mentored and inspired countless students and instructors. She currently holds the title of Chief Ambassador for ATA International, a testament to her standing in the organization.

Preserving a Legacy

As a student of the ATA's founder, Eternal Grand Master H.U. Lee, Grandmaster Harvey-Stauber has dedicated her life to preserving his original vision and devotion to the sport. She embodies the core tenets of Taekwondo—integrity, perseverance, and indomitable spirit. She is highly regarded for her "old-school" mentality and dedication to preserving the authenticity of the art, ensuring that students are not only technically proficient but also grounded in its philosophical principles. Her influence as an instructor and leader has been instrumental in shaping the careers of thousands of martial artists.

A Modern Icon

Having achieved the rank of 9th Dan, Grandmaster Tammy Harvey-Stauber is an icon of female leadership in modern martial arts. Her story is one of breaking down barriers and setting the standard for what it means to be a true martial artist in a global organization. She continues to inspire a new generation of practitioners, both male and female, to pursue excellence without compromise and to honor the traditions of the past while building a new future. Her career stands as a powerful example of the transformative power of martial arts.

Here we are starting some modern day masters-
starting with the son of the founder, grandmaster choi jung hwa:

The Legend of Grandmaster Choi Jung Hwa:

Grandmaster Choi Jung Hwa

Rank: Grandmaster (9th Dan) Nationality: South Korean / Canadian Affiliation: International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF)

The Son of the Founder

Grandmaster Choi Jung Hwa's connection to Taekwon-Do is as profound as it is personal. Born the son of the art's founder, General Choi Hong Hi, he was steeped in the philosophy and techniques of Taekwon-Do from his earliest days. His training was not merely physical but a deep dive into the art's core principles. Having lived and breathed Taekwon-Do alongside its creator, he gained a unique and intimate understanding of its spirit, a perspective few others could ever claim. This early exposure laid the groundwork for his future role as a leader and a guardian of his father's legacy.

A Global Ambassador

Following in his father's footsteps, Grandmaster Choi Jung Hwa took on the responsibility of a global ambassador for Taekwon-Do. He traveled the world extensively, conducting seminars, demonstrations, and international courses to ensure the art was taught correctly and consistently. His efforts were crucial in expanding the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) into new territories, especially after his father's passing. His unwavering commitment to the traditional tenets of Taekwon-Do has earned him the respect of countless practitioners worldwide, and he continues to be a central figure in the global martial arts community.

Upholding the Legacy

After the passing of General Choi, Grandmaster Choi Jung Hwa assumed leadership of the ITF, a role he saw as a solemn duty to his father's vision. He has focused on preserving the original patterns, techniques, and philosophy of Taekwon-Do as created by General Choi. Under his guidance, the ITF has maintained its focus on a purist approach, prioritizing the art's moral and ethical teachings alongside its physical applications. His leadership has been instrumental in ensuring that the original art of Taekwon-Do continues to thrive and remains true to its roots.

A Modern Leader

As a modern-day grandmaster, Choi Jung Hwa has navigated the complexities of leading a global martial arts organization in the 21st century. He has worked to modernize the ITF's structure while keeping its traditional heart intact. He is a living link to the founder and a beacon for those who follow the original Taekwon-Do principles. His career is a powerful example of what it means to carry on a historic legacy, and he continues to inspire a new generation of practitioners to achieve the highest levels of skill and integrity.

The legend of modern day grandmaster Mark Williams:

Grandmaster Mark Williams

Rank: Grandmaster (9th Dan) Nationality: British Affiliation: Taekwon-Do International

A British Taekwon-Do Pioneer

Grandmaster Mark Williams is one of the most respected and influential figures in modern British martial arts. With a career spanning over five decades, he has been instrumental in the growth and development of Taekwon-Do in the United Kingdom and beyond. His journey began in the 1970s, where he dedicated himself to mastering the art under its original traditions. Through his unwavering discipline and commitment, he earned the highest rank of 9th Dan, a testament to a lifetime of training, teaching, and leadership. His work has cemented him as a cornerstone of the UK's Taekwon-Do community and a true example of the art's enduring legacy.

An International Leader

Beyond his contributions in the UK, Grandmaster Williams is a globally recognized figure. He is the founder and head of Taekwon-Do International, an organization dedicated to upholding the traditional patterns and philosophical tenets of the art. He travels the world extensively, conducting seminars and courses to ensure that students and instructors worldwide receive authentic, high-quality training. His leadership has helped to spread the art to new generations and new territories, solidifying his role as a key guardian of its future. He is highly respected for his technical precision and his deep understanding of the art's core principles.

The Modern Ambassador

As a modern-day grandmaster, Mark Williams embodies the spirit of an ambassador for the martial arts. He is known for his humility, integrity, and dedication to his students. He understands the importance of preserving the traditions of Taekwon-Do while adapting to the modern world, making the art accessible and relevant to all. He continues to inspire a new generation of practitioners to achieve their full potential, not only as martial artists but as people of strong character. His work is a powerful reminder that the legacy of a grandmaster is not just in their physical skill, but in the positive impact they have on the world.

The legends of Linda lee:

Master Linda Lee

Rank: Master (8th Dan) Nationality: American Affiliation: American Taekwondo Association (ATA)

A Legacy of Leadership

Master Linda Lee is an influential figure in modern Taekwondo and a living connection to the art's American founder, her father, Eternal Grand Master H.U. Lee. Raised within the ATA, she inherited a deep passion for the martial arts and a profound understanding of its core principles. As an accomplished practitioner and a high-ranking master, she has dedicated her life to preserving and advancing the legacy her father built. Her commitment extends beyond the physical techniques, as she works tirelessly to ensure that the philosophical and character-building aspects of Taekwondo continue to guide new generations of students.

A Modern Voice for the ATA

As the current CEO of the ATA, Master Lee is a modern leader who oversees one of the largest and most successful martial arts organizations in the world. She has been instrumental in modernizing the ATA, ensuring that it remains relevant and accessible to a diverse, global community. She is known for her insightful teaching style, her strong leadership, and her ability to inspire students from all walks of life. Her role demonstrates the evolution of martial arts leadership—from a single founder to a dynamic, forward-thinking organization that continues to thrive in the 21st century.

Preserving Tradition, Embracing the Future

Master Linda Lee's journey is a powerful story of balancing tradition with progress. She honors the traditions passed down by her father while embracing innovative approaches to teaching and organization. She travels extensively, teaching seminars and empowering students and instructors to carry on the art of Taekwondo. Her work is a testament to the fact that a strong legacy is not just about looking back, but about building a vibrant future.

Grandmaster Tran trieu Quan:

Grandmaster Tran Trieu Quan

Rank: Grandmaster (9th Dan) Nationality: Canadian (born in Vietnam) Affiliation: International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF)

A Journey of Unification and Leadership

Grandmaster Tran Trieu Quan was a pivotal figure in the history of modern Taekwon-Do, known for his relentless dedication to unity and for his inspiring leadership. Born in Vietnam, he began his training in his youth before moving to Canada, where he continued his martial arts journey and became a master. His career was marked by a deep commitment to the traditional principles of Taekwon-Do and a passion for helping the art thrive in the 21st century.

Guiding the ITF Through Change

After the passing of the founder, General Choi Hong Hi, the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) faced a period of fragmentation. Grandmaster Quan's leadership became essential during this challenging time. He was democratically elected as the President of one of the major ITF factions, and his vision was to heal the divisions and bring the community together. He worked tirelessly to create a more unified and professional organization, focusing on the core values of the art rather than political disputes. His efforts were critical in ensuring that the traditions of Taekwon-Do were preserved for future generations.

A Legacy of Integrity

Grandmaster Quan's legacy is one of unwavering integrity and courage. He was a champion of the art who always put the welfare of its practitioners first. He believed that the power of Taekwon-Do lay in its ability to build character and community. Through his leadership, he not only preserved a great martial art but also left a powerful example of how to lead with honor and humility. He continues to be an inspiration to students and masters around the world.

Grandamster George vitaly:

Grandmaster George Vitale

Rank: Grandmaster (9th Dan) Nationality: American Affiliation: Independent (ITF)

A Historian and Student of the Founder

Grandmaster George Vitale is a highly respected figure in the world of Taekwon-Do, known for his deep historical knowledge and his unwavering commitment to the legacy of the founder, General Choi Hong Hi. As a young man, he had the unique privilege of being a student under General Choi and traveling with him on his famous demonstration tours. This experience gave him a profound understanding of the original techniques and philosophy that the founder intended to be passed down. He has since dedicated his life to preserving that original, pure form of Taekwon-Do.

The Keeper of the Flame

Grandmaster Vitale is often called the "Keeper of the Flame" due to his role in documenting and preserving the history of Taekwon-Do. He has meticulously chronicled the lives and contributions of the art's pioneers, ensuring that their stories are not lost to time. He is a prolific writer and a sought-after speaker at seminars and events around the world. His dedication to historical accuracy and his personal connection to General Choi make him a trusted authority on the art's origins and traditions.

A Legacy of Authenticity

In a modern Taekwon-Do world with many competing styles and federations, Grandmaster Vitale's mission is to promote the authenticity of the art as it was originally created. His legacy is not just in his own physical skill but in his intellectual contribution—making sure that practitioners today can connect with the rich history and philosophy that makes Taekwon-Do a complete martial art.

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