World Taekwondo announced on the 13th that it awarded honorary 9th dan to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the President of Kazakhstan.
According to World Taekwondo, President Chungwon Cho presented the honorary 9th dan to President Tokayev at the Kazakhstan Presidential Palace on the 12th local time.
This is to express gratitude for President Tokayev's unwavering support for the development of taekwondo in Kazakhstan, according to World Taekwondo.
President Tokayev said, "Taekwondo is not only an Olympic sport but also a martial art that embodies the values of harmony, discipline, and mutual respect," adding that "collaboration with World Taekwondo will deepen the friendship between Kazakhstan and taekwondo's development."
In response, President Cho noted, "I am deeply grateful for Kazakhstan's dedication and hospitality, and I highly appreciate the achievements of Kazakh athletes on the international stage."
President Tokayev presented President Cho with the Order of Friendship.
President Cho visited Kazakhstan to attend the 'Kazakhstan Open,' which will be held from the 14th to the 16th. This event is expected to be attended by over 700 athletes and officials from 23 countries in Astana.
Kazakhstan was also selected as the host for the 2026 World Taekwondo Grand Prix Final and Gala Awards during the World Taekwondo executive board meeting held in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, in May.
[OSEN]