World Taekwondo President awards FISU President Leonz Eder honorary 8th Dan. WT

World Taekwondo (WT) President Chungwon Choue awarded the International University Sports Federation (FISU) President Leonz Eder an honorary 8th Dan certificate in recognition of his unwavering support for Taekwondo in university sports.

The presentation took place during President Eder's visit to the World Taekwondo HQ in Seoul, Korea.

Taekwondo debuted at the FISU World University Games as an optional sport at Daegu 2003, following a decision of the FISU Executive Committee at its meeting in Beijing in July 2000. It also appeared at the following four editions as an optional sport. 

Taekwondo debuted at the FISU World University Games as an optional sport at Daegu 2003. WT
Taekwondo debuted at the FISU World University Games as an optional sport at Daegu 2003. WT

Ties between World Taekwondo and FISU were further strengthened in November 2009, when the FISU Executive Committee voted at a meeting in Erzurum for Taekwondo to become a compulsory sport at the FISU World University Games, effective from Taipei 2017. Taekwondo has remained part of the official programme ever since thanks to the ongoing close collaboration between both organisations. 

President Choue hailed the strength of World Taekwondo's relationship with FISU.

"I am very happy to present an honorary black belt to President Erder in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Taekwondo. World Taekwondo and FISU have enjoyed a strong relationship for many decades. We look forward to building on this relationship in the years ahead."

FISU President Leonz Eder. WT
FISU President Leonz Eder. WT

President Eder commented, "It is an honor to receive an honorary Taekwondo black belt. Taekwondo is a very important sport for FISU. FISU will continue to cooperate closely with World Taekwondo and ensure as many students as possible benefit from this great sport." He also added that Para Taekwondo would be included in the 2027 Chungcheong Summer World University Games.

Following the award ceremony, President Eder will attend Opening Ceremony of the Daegu 2024 World University Taekwondo Festival on 5 July.

The Festival at Keimyung University Seongseo Campus includes two days of Kyorugi competition on 5-6 July, followed by Poomsae events on 7 July.