The 4th Korean Ambassador Cup Brunei Darussalam Taekwondo Championship 2024 kicked off yesterday with a flying demonstration by the Korean Kukkiwon demo team at the Youth Centre in the capital.
Korean Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Kim Soung-eun said, “This year’s competition takes a special significance as we celebrate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Brunei.”
Taekwondo, he said, “is a martial art that embodies Korea’s rich cultural heritage. It is more than just a sport, it is a way of life. It instils values of discipline, respect and the spirit needed to overcome challenges. In this light, the taekwondo championship symbolises more than a competition, it’s a celebration of the friendship shared among our nations, a friendship that has flourished over four decades”.
The ambassador added, “As we commemorate 40 years of diplomatic ties, this championship serves as a testament to the strong cultural and sporting bonds we have enjoyed. I firmly believe that sports cooperation through Taekwondo fosters stronger relationship among our countries and promotes mutual understanding.”
The ambassador also showcased his taekwondo skills by punching a wooden board into pieces to officiate the opening of the event.
Attendees also witnessed musical performances from Expression Music, followed by a taekwondo showcase by the Korean Kukkiwon demo team.
Some 185 taekwondo athletes from nine clubs in the Sultanate and Malaysia will compete in various categories in the next few days.
Acting Director of Youth and Sports Haji Mohamad Rosfazilah bin Haji Yusly was the guest of honour at the opening ceremony.
Brunei Darussalam Taekwondo Association (BDTA) patron Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Haji Hazair bin Haji Abdullah and BDTA president Haji Tajuddin bin Haji Mohd Salleh were also present. – James Kon
