Taekwondo, the dynamic martial art known for its powerful kicks and strategic combat, is celebrating its second participation in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. This milestone is a testament to the sport’s rapid growth, increased inclusion and growing global recognition from its international federation, World Taekwondo.
[Artwork in motion at the Paralympic Games thanks to Picasso and Okuda]
Para-taekwondo’s trajectory at the Paralympic Games began at the Tokyo 2020 Games, where it made a historic debut. That event marked a significant turning point, showcasing the remarkable skills, determination and endurance of para-athletes from around the world. With Tokyo 2020 as a solid foundation, taekwondo has solidified its presence in the Paralympic movement, and its return to the world stage in Paris underscores the continued evolution and success of the sport.
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On Tuesday, August 27, just one day before the official start of the Paralympic Games, key figures from the World Taekwondo Federation gathered at the iconic Grand Palais, the venue for this year’s taekwondo competitions, for a watershed meeting. Among those in attendance were World Taekwondo President Dr. Chungwon Choue, Secretary General Jeongkang Seo, and Paris 2024 Paralympic Games Technical Delegate Chakir Chelbat. They were joined by technical controllers Usman Dildar and Mohammed Argoubi, along with other officials who have been instrumental in the growth and success of the sport.
THE GREAT PARALYMPIC GROWTH
During the meeting, Dr. Choue reflected on the remarkable progress of para-taekwondo since its inception. “Three years ago, we celebrated the wonderful debut of para-taekwondo at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, where 38 countries competed,” he noted. “This year, we are proud to have 52 nations represented, plus a Refugee Team and Neutral Athletes, bringing together 121 athletes. This growth is a clear indication of the growing reach and appeal of the sport.”
Dr Choue also recalled the first edition of the World Para Taekwondo Championships in 2009 in Baku, Azerbaijan, which featured the participation of only 15 nations. “We had to work very hard to attract more countries,” noting the dedication and effort needed to elevate the sport to its current status.
Taekwondo’s inclusion in the Paralympic Games is part of a broader effort to make martial arts more accessible to athletes with disabilities. Over the years, the sport has adapted its rules and classifications to ensure that athletes, regardless of their impairments, can compete on an equal footing. This adaptability has been particularly evident in the Kyorugi (combat) discipline, where athletes are ranked according to their functional abilities, ensuring fairness and competitiveness.
FROM AUGUST 29 TO 31 AT THE GRAND PALAIS
At the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, which take place from August 29 to 31 at the Grand Palais, athletes will compete in 10 weight categories: five male and five female. Looking ahead, Dr. Choue highlighted the bright future of para-taekwondo. Following the sport’s successful debut in Tokyo, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) decided to expand the number of medals, reflecting the growing popularity and competitive level of the sport. “This growth would not have been possible without the devotion and contribution of everyone involved,” said Dr Choue, acknowledging the collective effort that has taken para-taekwondo to new heights.
As the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games begin, taekwondo continues to inspire and empower athletes around the world, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and further cementing its place in the Paralympic program. The future of para-taekwondo looks brighter than ever as it continues to grow, inspire and unite athletes from all corners of the globe.
