Title: Kukkiwon: The Epicenter of Taekwondo
As a traveler, you may have heard of Taekwondo, a Korean martial art that has become popular across the world. But have you ever heard of Kukkiwon, the place where Taekwondo was born? Kukkiwon is the world-famous organization that manages and promotes Taekwondo internationally, as well as the training center for Taekwondo masters. In this article, we will introduce you to Kukkiwon and what makes it the epicenter of Taekwondo.
What is Kukkiwon?
Kukkiwon, also known as the World Taekwondo Headquarters, is located in the Gangnam district of Seoul, South Korea. It was established in 1972 as a center to train and certify Taekwondo instructors and masters. Kukkiwon is recognized by the Korean government as the national academy for Taekwondo, and it sets the standard for Taekwondo techniques and rules worldwide.
Kukkiwon has become an essential institution for Taekwondo practitioners, with over 3 million registered members globally. It offers various Taekwondo programs for beginner to advanced levels, including demonstration teams, referee training, and international competitions. Many Taekwondo legends have trained and obtained their certification from Kukkiwon, making it the most respected Taekwondo institution globally.
Attractions and Activities at Kukkiwon
If you are passionate about Taekwondo, visiting Kukkiwon should be on your bucket list. The venue offers various attractions that both educate and entertain its visitors. We’ve listed a few of the must-visit attractions below:
1. Taekwondo Museum – This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Taekwondo. It showcases various Taekwondo uniforms, equipment, and medals from past competitions.
2. Taekwondo Performance Team – The Kukkiwon Performance Team showcases awe-inspiring demonstrations of Taekwondo techniques, including board breaking, aerial kicks, and acrobatics.
3. Certification Course – If you want to become a certified Taekwondo instructor or master, Kukkiwon offers various certification courses that range from three months to three years.
4. World Taekwondo Hanmadang – This annual event features Taekwondo competitions and performances from around the world.
Places to Visit Near Kukkiwon
If you’re planning to visit Kukkiwon, there are several attractions and places to visit nearby. Here are a few suggestions:
1. COEX Mall – One of the largest underground shopping malls in Asia, COEX Mall is located just a few blocks away from Kukkiwon. It has various shopping and entertainment options, including a movie theater and aquarium.
2. Bongeunsa Temple – This historic Buddhist temple is located across the street from Kukkiwon. It features a beautiful garden and temple hall that visitors can explore.
3. Gangnam District – Gangnam District is one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Seoul. It is home to various high-end restaurants, bars, and stores.
Other Places Similar to Kukkiwon
If you’re interested in other martial arts or similar training centers, here are a few suggestions:
1. Shaolin Temple – Shaolin Temple is a famous training center for Chinese martial arts, including Kung Fu.
2. Gracie Academy – Gracie Academy is a training center for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu located in California, USA.
3. Kodokan – Kodokan is the headquarters for Judo, located in Tokyo, Japan.
Transportation to Kukkiwon
To reach Kukkiwon, you can take the Seoul Subway Line 2 or 3 and exit at Samseong Station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to Kukkiwon. You can also take a taxi or ride-sharing service from your location. The entrance fee for Kukkiwon varies depending on the program or attraction you want to visit, but it ranges from 10,000 to 50,000 Korean won.
Conclusion
Kukkiwon is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates or practices Taekwondo. It offers various programs and attractions that showcase the history and culture of Taekwondo. Visiting Kukkiwon and exploring nearby attractions is an ideal way to spend a day in Seoul, South Korea.
