By Honorary Reporter Aarushi Chauhan from India
Photos = Park Jun-hee

At the India-Korea Music Festival in Noida, India, from June 14-16, I saw a taekwondo demonstration by a team from Daekyeung University in Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province. The energetic performance was thrilling in showcasing the discipline and artistry of the martial art.

The Daekyeung University taekwondo demonstration team performs at the India-Korea Music Festival.

I also met at the event the team's coach Park Jun-hee, who despite the language barrier shared his thoughts on taekwondo. With a Ph.D. in physical education from Kyung Hee University in Seoul, he has helped teams win many top awards at national and international competitions.

The following are excerpts from a June 26 email interview with Park. 

The Daekyeung University taekwondo demonstration team takes photos with the audience after its performance.

How was your visit to India for the India-Korea Music Festival?

I was honored to visit New Delhi for the festival. Despite the scorching heat upon arrival, our team quickly adapted and focused on managing our physical condition. We also traveled to Varanasi on the second day, where we experienced the rich culture along the Ganges River.

At the festival, I observed strong interest among Indian attendees in Korean culture, particularly K-pop and taekwondo. Fortunately, our taekwondo performance received a better reaction than expected, which was incredibly rewarding for our athletes.

How did your students' participation in the festival help them grow as athletes?

Our university emphasizes practical field experience to foster excellence and dignity among athletes. Each year, our students win awards at national and international competitions and take part in domestic and overseas cultural exchange like the festival. These experiences broaden their perspectives and provide valuable opportunities for development.

Coach Park Jun-hee hails his team for a great performance.

What does taekwondo mean to you and how do you teach this to your students? 

Taekwondo isn't just a sport for me; it's a lifestyle that shapes my character and discipline. I impart this philosophy to my students through character education and the kicking artistry in our program. Etiquette and moral development are fundamental aspects guiding our journey to become upright individuals.

What do demonstration team members do after university?

After university, members want to promote taekwondo as instructors teaching in Korea and abroad, while others join other demonstration teams. Beyond taekwondo, our graduates also find jobs in fields like law enforcement and firefighting, using the strength and discipline fostered through their training. 

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.