07/11/2025
Clarification on the Difference Between the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) and Taekwon-Do as Founded by General Choi Hong Hi
This statement is provided to help clarify an important distinction that is sometimes misunderstood within the Taekwon-Do community.
The International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) is an organization, while Taekwon-Do itself is the martial art and system created by the Founder, General Choi Hong Hi, in 1955.
The ITF was established in 1966 to promote, organize, and govern the practice of Taekwon-Do around the world. However, the art of Taekwon-Do its techniques, philosophy, and moral principles belongs to all who study and preserve the teachings of General Choi.
Therefore, a master or instructor may no longer be a member of the ITF organization, yet still teach and follow the original Taekwon-Do as developed by the Founder. Leaving the federation does not mean abandoning the art.
For independent groups and practitioners, it is important to understand that when someone refers to “ITF Taekwon-Do,” it often means they are teaching the technical system, patterns, and philosophy of General Choi Hong Hi not necessarily that they belong to a specific administrative body.
Our respect remains for all who continue to uphold and share the Founder’s legacy, regardless of organizational affiliation.
TaeKwon,
Jamie Moore