07 Mar 2026
IWD 2026 Special Feature: Perspective & Inspiring Voices: Master Jang Kyong Ok
International Women’s Day Special Feature
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we celebrate the contributions of women who continue to shape the development of Taekwon-Do across different fields — from technical excellence and officiating to governance and international leadership.
In this special feature, two distinguished figures share their reflections and experiences, offering perspectives that inspire the global Taekwon-Do community.
Master Jang Kyong Ok
Chairwoman, Asian Taekwon-Do Federation Technical Committee
On Technique, Competition and the Integrity of Officiating
International Women’s Day Message
First of all, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the ITF Women’s Committee for its continued dedication and contribution to the development of Taekwon-Do.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, I would also like to extend my warm congratulations to Taekwon-Do practitioners all over the world and to all women who love Taekwon-Do.
The Development of Taekwon-Do Techniques
The development of Taekwon-Do techniques requires athletes to possess excellent skills.
Because of this, the value of Taekwon-Do continues to increase, and it has been loved by many fans and has become a meaningful part of human life.
The high level of skill and the artistic quality of Taekwon-Do techniques are essential requirements for its development, and these qualities are expressed through competitions.
As competition between techniques and competitive ability becomes more intense, Taekwon-Do continues to develop and expand beyond national borders.
Through Taekwon-Do tournaments, we exchange experiences, learn from one another, and deepen our friendships. This contributes positively to the promotion of world peace and mutual understanding.
Women in Taekwon-Do
On this International Women’s Day, I would also like to extend my regards to female Taekwon-Do practitioners around the world.
Today, for many of us as women, Taekwon-Do has clearly become an important part of our social activities.
In the world of Taekwon-Do, which cultivates moral character and strengthens self-defence capability, women rightfully take their place and play a significant role in the technical development of Taekwon-Do alongside men.
Taking this opportunity, I would like to share my hope that women will continue to play an even more important role in the development of Taekwon-Do.
Competition and Tactical Development
Taekwon-Do techniques and competitive ability have become important criteria in modern competition.
Physical condition and technical skill form the foundation of tactics. Only with proper physical preparation and high-level techniques can athletes successfully implement tactical plans and systems.
In sparring, tactics are one of the most important elements of competitive ability because they greatly influence competition results and affect the effectiveness of physical and technical performance.
The main objective of competitive ability is to achieve success in competition through comprehensive preparation — physical, technical, tactical, psychological, and intellectual.
Competition is essentially a technical confrontation. No matter how strong an athlete’s spirit may be, good results cannot be expected without proper technical and tactical preparation.
Therefore, the application of techniques in Taekwon-Do competition represents both a technical and tactical confrontation, and it can be considered a treasured weapon for achieving victory.
Tactical ability is expressed through the rational use of physical strength and technical skills. Without excellent physical condition and refined techniques, tactical plans cannot be successfully realized.
As new tactical systems are developed, they demand even better physical preparation and higher technical standards. Proper tactical preparation helps maximize the athlete’s physical and technical potential.
In this sense, the effectiveness of physical and technical abilities largely depends on the level of tactical preparedness.
The Role of Umpires
It is true that the result of any competition depends largely on the athlete’s preparation, the level of the opponent, the management of the competition, the environment, and the conduct of the coach. However, I believe that the professional morality of the umpire is of vital importance.
An umpire must always remain fair and impartial. Without impartiality, the work of the umpire itself loses its meaning.
Through my experience as an umpire representing DPR Korea in international events, I have always reminded myself that the world is watching Original Taekwon-Do with serious attention.
The impartiality of the umpire is not only a matter of personal conscience, but also an ideal that contributes to peace in the world.
Closing Message
I pledge that I will always remain loyal to my duties as an umpire in the future. I keep firmly in mind that avoiding misjudgement is the only way to protect our Original Taekwon-Do and the ITF.
I would also like to appeal to all umpires to remain impartial in their activities.
Lastly, I sincerely hope that women will continue to love Original Taekwon-Do and play a pivotal role in its development. I will be very glad if my message can offer any encouragement or help.
Photogallery: https://itf-tkd.org/gallery/women-of-taekwon-do-perspectives-and-inspiring-voices-master-jang-kyong-ok/
