Update from the Chair of the Taekwondo Canada Kukkiwon Committee
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Dear Canadian Taekwondo Community,
As you are likely aware, Kukkiwon initiated some significant policy changes regarding the application of Poom and Dan certification. The most notable being Masters wishing to promote Kukkiwon must complete Kukkiwon’s Master and Examiner’s courses.
Between 2023 and 2024, Taekwondo Canada formed an ad hoc committee tasked with developing a framework aligned with Kukkiwon requirements. In October 2024, Taekwondo Canada officially signed an MOU with Kukkiwon and in February 2025, TC established a new ad hoc committee to address gaps and create the Kukkiwon Canada Commission.
The Kukkiwon Canada Committee is a diverse group of Masters and Grandmasters from across the country charged with the goal of clearly defining a process consistent with Kukkiwon guidelines while adapting it to Canada’s unique context. This process would ensure the development of a progressive, accessible, and globally recognized Kukkiwon policy—a challenging and vital undertaking.
Like many of you, we share similar concerns and reservations. We believe in the value of Kukkiwon certification in addition to Kukkiwon’s role as the world leader in the development of Taekwondo. However, we feel Kukkiwon must acknowledge the commitment, expertise and the crucial role Canadian Masters and Grandmasters have played in the global expansion of Taekwondo and be a true partner in this process.
To date, the committee has held several meetings and have made significant strides in formulating the Kukkiwon Canada Commission policy document. There are three key components that we deem fundamental to its success:
Grandfathering Clause: We recognize and honor the commitment of Grandmasters and high Dan holders who have dedicated their lives to Taekwondo in Canada. This clause will acknowledge their contributions and experience and exempt them from the Masters / Examiners courses.
Made-in-Canada Course: The existing Kukkiwon courses are costly, lengthy (8-9 days), and rarely offered in North America. Our committee recommends a “made in Canada” hybrid model—combining online coursework covering Taekwondo philosophy, history and theory with a condensed practical component that can be delivered regionally. This approach aims to reduce costs, increase accessibility, and shorten the course duration.
The third key element of this process is to ensure Taekwondo Canada has the resources to effectively and efficiently process Kukkiwon applications. Many Masters have experienced difficulties and lengthy delays in obtaining certification. Through ongoing discussions with TC staff, we aim to develop concrete solutions to streamline this process.
I feel it is necessary to point out that this is NOT an initiative by TC or the Committee to control black belt exams or to create undue financial and procedural obstacles for Masters, Grandmasters and their students. Many countries have created Kukkiwon Commissions in response to Kukkiwon’s criteria. The committee’s sole objective is to meet Kukkiwon’s Dan promotion requirements while advocating for the recognition of Canadian Masters and Grandmasters and to develop a made in Canada solution.
In closing, I sincerely thank the committee members for their dedication, commitment and expertise; the staff at Taekwondo Canada for their transparency and engagement; and Grandmaster Ha for his ongoing support. Most importantly, I extend my gratitude to the Canadian Taekwondo Community for your patience, questions, and understanding.
Yours in Taekwondo,
Master Jens Hosel
Kukkiwon Canada Ad hoc Committee
Chairperson
