22/03/2026
Today, on March 22, 2026, the global Taekwon-Do community marks a significant milestone — the 60th anniversary of the founding of the International Taekwon-Do Federation. This is not just an organizational юбилей — it is a celebration of an idea, a philosophy, and a path that has united millions of people around the world.
The history of ITF is inseparably linked with the name of its founder — Choi Hong Hi (1918–2002), a man whose dedication, vision, and perseverance shaped Taekwon-Do into what it is today. General Choi Hong Hi not only systematized and developed traditional Korean martial practices, but also created a unique martial art grounded in scientific principles, precise technique, and profound philosophy. It was he who introduced the name “Taekwon-Do” in 1955, and eleven years later — on March 22, 1966 — founded the International Taekwon-Do Federation.
On the day of ITF’s founding — March 22, 1966 — in Seoul, nine countries became founding members: South Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, West Germany, Italy, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States of America.
This number was not accidental. General Choi Hong Hi placed great importance on numerology and recognized the symbolic meaning of numbers, with “9” holding a special place. This step became the starting point for the rapid global expansion of Taekwon-Do. Thanks to General Choi’s tireless efforts, ITF soon evolved into a worldwide movement, uniting people of diverse cultures and nationalities.
Of particular importance is the fact that General Choi viewed Taekwon-Do not only as a system of self-defense, but also as a powerful tool for personal development. The principles of Taekwon-Do — courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit — have become the foundation not only of training, but of the life path of every practitioner.
Today, 60 years later, we gratefully remember the immense contribution of the Founder of Taekwon-Do and the first President of ITF, whose legacy has made Taekwon-Do one of the most recognized martial arts in the world, while preserving its philosophical depth and traditions.
On this special day, we, the Latvian Taekwon-Do Federation, together with the entire global Taekwon-Do community, proudly celebrate the 60th anniversary of ITF. This is our shared path, our history, and our future. We continue to develop and pass on the values of Taekwon-Do to future generations, preserving the legacy established by the great Master.
Happy 60th Anniversary, ITF!
