11/26/2025
We would like to share a heartfelt letter from Linda Button reflecting on our Hanmadang and recent visit to South Korea.
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Dear Mr. Kim,
I expected a lot of feelings, coming to Seoul for the Hanmadang: pride, excitement, delight. But I had not expected to be moved to tears as I was throughout yesterday.
Perhaps it was the experience of seeing so many of us, from so many global corners, practicing one discipline. Or listening to conversations with few common words and, yet, deep understanding. Last night at dinner, for example, I shared a table with four women from the Korea school. We conversed through a translation app, through gestures, and laughter. Eriko and I learned that all four women had joined the school later in life—at 22, 36, 52 and 55. They were excited to practice a sport that used to be geared toward men. They spoke of feeling inspired to become better people, and of the strength taekwondo had given them. If your goal was to extend Taekwondo to adults in Asia, it looks like the idea has taken root : ).
Or, maybe it was the electricity that filled the dojang yesterday, the rambunctious energy of the kids, the nerves of performance, the explosion of relief and inspiration at the end. You spoke of mortality and legacy and looking to members to carry on what you have carried to us from General Choi. That gave all of us pause. I could feel the welling of love (yes, I believe it’s love) that took over that moment.
But, mostly, I wept from the realization of what your gift to us truly is. You celebrate each of us, regardless of our natural talents or limitations. I saw it on your face during the exhibition. You take joy in what we bring—whether the humor and passion of Ireland, the power of Seattle, the precision of Korea, the acrobatics of Shanghai, or the loyalty of Boston. You encourage our innovation and ask for our dedication. And it is our privilege to be part of what you have created.
I felt honored to join this Hanmadang. I always wish I could do better for you, and am grateful for the invitation to try. Thank you, as well, for the glorious Friday. Visiting your parents’ tomb brought meaning to the weekend. Touring the palace and dressing in Hanbok clothing was pure delight. And sharing meals—breakfasts and luncheons and a very entertaining buffet, brings us together as community.
Thank you for everything and safe travels home.
With warmest regards,
Linda Button
