Accra: The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Ghana and the Ghana Taekwondo Federation (GTF) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation to advance the development of taekwondo across the country, particularly at the grassroots level. The renewed partnership was discussed on Tuesday when the newly elected executives of the GTF paid a courtesy call to the Korean Embassy.
According to Ghana News Agency, the delegation was led by Mr. Frederick Lartey Otu, President of the GTF, who is expected to steer the affairs of the federation over the next four years. Mr. Otu expressed gratitude to the Korean Embassy for its longstanding support, particularly the donation of essential taekwondo equipment that contributed to the successful organization of the taekwondo competition during the 2023 African Games hosted by Ghana. He outlined the federation's vision to expand the sport nationwide through intensive grassroots development programs.
Over the next four years, the federation plans to develop the sport from the grassroots, starting with an awareness campaign in five regions to ensure taekwondo is better understood and embraced. Mr. Otu disclosed that the federation had secured support from the Ghana Education Service to introduce taekwondo in both basic and second-cycle schools, as well as selected private institutions. The initiative is part of a long-term strategy to produce future Olympic champions for Ghana.
The GTF President also appealed for technical assistance from South Korea, including the deployment of a young taekwondo master to support athlete development and the provision of additional equipment to enhance training programs.
Receiving the delegation, Mr. Park Kyongsig, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Ghana, congratulated the newly elected executives on their victory and reaffirmed the embassy's commitment to supporting the growth of taekwondo in Ghana. He commended the federation for its collaboration in organizing the annual Ambassador Cup Taekwondo Championship and expressed optimism about the success of the 16th edition scheduled for August 29, 2026, at the Borteyman Sports Complex.
Ambassador Park further pledged the embassy's support in facilitating technical assistance and securing additional equipment to enhance the development of taekwondo in Ghana, highlighting taekwondo as an important cultural bridge between Korea and Ghana and a valuable tool for youth development and mental well-being.