Kukkiwon Launches International Taekwondo Education Program in India

The Kukkiwon International Taekwondo Education Program has been launched in India, aiming to enhance coaching standards and athlete development in school sports. Held in Mumbai, this initiative brought together educators and coaches for immersive training led by experts from Kukkiwon. With a focus on global best practices, the program seeks to elevate Taekwondo education in India. Key figures from ISSO and Kukkiwon emphasized their commitment to fostering international collaboration and improving technical standards. This initiative marks a significant step in the growth of Taekwondo within the Indian sports ecosystem.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 22, 2026, 23:37 IST

Introduction of the Kukkiwon Taekwondo Program

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 22: The Kukkiwon International Taekwondo Education Program has been officially launched in India, a collaborative effort by the International Schools Sports Organisation (ISSO), Kukkiwon (the World Taekwondo Headquarters in South Korea), and ISF Academy. This initiative aims to enhance coaching standards, technical proficiency, and athlete development within the school sports framework of the country.

Event Details and Participation

The program took place on June 20 and 21 at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Junior School in Mumbai, gathering educators and Taekwondo enthusiasts, including 40 coaches from across India. The event featured immersive training sessions led by renowned experts from Kukkiwon, the official authority for Taekwondo worldwide.

Goals and Objectives of the Initiative

This initiative showcases the commitment of ISSO, ISF Academy, and Kukkiwon to enhance school sports through education, global collaboration, and the implementation of internationally recognized best practices. Participants were exposed to Kukkiwon-standard poomsae training, coaching methodologies, and frameworks for athlete progression, all aimed at advancing high-performance Taekwondo education.

Kukkiwon's Role in Global Taekwondo Development

Kukkiwon, based in Seoul, South Korea, is recognized as the global authority for Taekwondo Dan certification and instructor education, impacting over 200 countries. Through its international education programs, Kukkiwon plays a crucial role in the growth and development of Taekwondo globally.

Leadership and Expertise

The program was spearheaded by Master Ahn Hyung-Won, a Kukkiwon Dispatch Master and Associate Instructor, who is highly regarded in the field of modern Taekwondo. A 6th Dan Black Belt, Master Ahn has an impressive background, including being a gold medallist at the U.S. Open Taekwondo Championship and a former Poomsae Instructor with the Asia Taekwondo Union.

Significance of the Collaboration

This collaboration represents a significant step forward for ISSO and ISF Academy in providing international-standard coaching education in India. Over the past year, these organizations have successfully partnered with various global sporting bodies, including FIBA and the Badminton World Federation (BWF), to deliver educational programs.

Statements from Leadership

Gaurav Dixit, Founding Director of ISSO, expressed, “Our vision at ISSO is to create impactful global learning opportunities for coaches, educators, and student-athletes by collaborating with esteemed sporting institutions. This partnership with Kukkiwon and ISF Academy marks a pivotal moment in bringing internationally recognized Taekwondo education to India, reinforcing our commitment to enhancing school sports and empowering educators with global insights.”

Kukkiwon's Commitment to Global Taekwondo

Na Young Jip, Senior Director of the International Strategy Department at Kukkiwon, emphasized the organization's dedication to promoting Taekwondo's growth through quality education and international partnerships. He stated, “We are thrilled to collaborate with ISSO and ISF Academy to introduce this vital program in India, a nation with a burgeoning Taekwondo community. Our goal is to enhance coaching expertise and athlete development while fostering cultural and sporting exchanges.”

Conclusion

The Kukkiwon International Taekwondo Education Program highlights a shared vision of establishing global standards in school Taekwondo through education and collaboration. By connecting Indian educators and practitioners with world-class expertise, this initiative aims to leave a lasting impact on the development of Taekwondo and school sports throughout the country.