Sixty years after its founding, the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) returned to the historic site where it all began. From March 19 to 22, 2026, approximately 200 practitioners and representatives from 18 countries gathered in Seoul to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the organization founded by General Choi Hong Hi.
The highlight of the event was the commemorative gala dinner held on March 22 at the Westin Chosun Hotel (formerly the Chosun Hotel) in Jung-gu District. It was precisely at this very hotel that, on March 22, 1966, the ITF was officially established, marking the birth of an organization that today unites Taekwon-Do practitioners in more than 100 countries around the world.
During the gala dinner, held under the theme “One Night. One Legacy. One Global Family,” attendees reflected on the history, achievements, and future of the ITF. Tribute was paid to those who have contributed to the development of the martial art, and its role as a tool for education, culture, and international diplomacy was emphasized.
Choi Jung Hwa, president of the ITF and son of the founder, General Choi Hong Hi, highlighted the symbolic significance of the event:
“The International Taekwon-Do Federation was founded in South Korea 60 years ago, and today we gather to reflect on that historic significance. This 60th anniversary not only commemorates the past, but also serves as an important starting point for shaping the ITF’s next era alongside future generations.”
For her part, Yu Seung-Hee, secretary general of the Korean ITF Taekwon-Do Association (ITF-Korea), which organized the event, stated:
“Sixty years ago, the ITF was founded right here, and today we are standing at that historic spot”
In addition to the gala, the program included activities such as the International Instructor’s Course and the International Technical Seminar (March 20 and 21), where instructors shared techniques and teaching methods for ITF Taekwon-Do. The “Taekwon-Do History Tour” (March 19 and 20) was also held, a historical and cultural tour that allowed participants to connect with the roots of the martial art in its country of origin.
Kim Sung-Chil, director of the ITF Research Institute, summed up the spirit of the anniversary:
“This 60th-anniversary celebration is a symbolic gathering where taekwondo practitioners from around the world come together as one. Building on the trust and solidarity we have fostered, we will expand global educational and cultural exchange programs to prepare for a new century.”
The event not only celebrated six decades of history but also looked ahead to the next 100 years, positioning Taekwon-Do as a tool for peace, international unity, and youth development. The upcoming 7th ONE Taekwon-Do World Championships in August were also mentioned, which aim to strengthen ties between different federations.
