By: ABID SIDDIQUE CHAUDHRY

TWA

_________

Islamabad: In a remarkable example of sports diplomacy and international cooperation, the 18th Korean Ambassador’s National Junior & Cadet Kyorugi and Poomsae Taekwondo Championship concluded successfully in Rawalpindi. The three-day national event symbolized the strengthening of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and South Korea, youth development, and the promotion of cultural ties—making it significant even in the context of global politics and world news.

Organization and Management of the Championship

The championship reinforced Pakistan–Korea diplomatic relations through sports and cultural exchange

The national championship was held at the Shehbaz Sharif Sports Complex and was jointly hosted by the Pakistan Taekwondo Federation and the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. The event was supported by Kukkiwon, the Pakistan Army Sports Directorate, and the District Sports Department Rawalpindi. Sponsorship was provided by Kingdom Valley and Cheezious, reflecting the growing involvement of the private sector in national sports.

Competition Categories and System

A total of 530 athletes from across the country registered for the championship, divided into the following age groups:

Cadet Division: 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2015
Junior Division: 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2011

Kyorugi competitions were conducted under a single-elimination system in accordance with World Olympic weight categories, while Poomsae competitions followed a cut-off system.

Poomsae Categories

Individual Cadet: Taeguk 1 to 8
Individual Junior & Mixed Pair Junior: Taeguk 4 to 8, Keumgang, Taebaek

All participating athletes possessed Kukkiwon Dan certificates, ensuring adherence to international standards.

National Representation

Teams participating in the championship included Pakistan Army, Pakistan Air Force, Pakistan Railways, Pakistan Police, Higher Education Commission, Islamabad Capital Territory, Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir.

Opening Ceremony and Diplomatic Significance

The event was co-hosted by the Pakistan Taekwondo Federation and the Embassy of the Republic of Korea

The opening ceremony was held at 6:00 PM and was attended by distinguished guests, including:

Mr. Park Jae Lark, Acting Ambassador of the Republic of Korea
Ms. Saba Shamim
Lieutenant Colonel Zeeshan Aslam, Pakistan Army Sports Directorate
Assistant Commissioner and Commissioner Rawalpindi

During the ceremony, taekwondo equipment provided by Kukkiwon was distributed among athletes, and the Pakistan National Taekwondo Team delivered an impressive demonstration.

In his address, H.E. Park Jae Lark stated that taekwondo is the national sport of the Republic of Korea and teaches values such as discipline, self-control, respect, and consideration for others. He praised the efforts of the Pakistan Taekwondo Federation in promoting the sport in Pakistan and reaffirmed his commitment to further strengthening Pakistan–Korea relations.

Ms. Saba Shamim emphasized that the Pakistan Taekwondo Federation is committed to empowering young athletes and providing them with opportunities to compete at higher levels. She expressed gratitude to the Korean Embassy for its continued financial and technical support.

This championship was not merely a sporting event but a powerful demonstration of diplomatic engagement, international cooperation, and positive youth development. Such events play a vital role in enhancing Pakistan’s global image and strengthening ties with the international community.

The Pakistan Taekwondo Federation will continue its collaboration with Korea and other international organizations to host more national and international competitions, train young athletes, and further improve Pakistan’s representation on the global stage.