SEOUL, Korea (Apr 21, 2025) - World Taekwondo expresses its deepest sorrow on the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, and extends heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community.
Pope Francis was a beacon of peace, compassion, and unity, who transcended religious and cultural boundaries with his humility and unwavering commitment to humanity. World Taekwondo had the honor of building a meaningful relationship with His Holiness, who recognized the power of sport in promoting social harmony and hope.
In October 2016, Pope Francis hosted the 1st Global Conference on Faith & Sport at the Vatican under the theme “Sport at the Service of Humanity.” During the opening ceremony, the World Taekwondo Demonstration Team performed at the Paul VI Audience Hall in the presence of Pope Francis, then-UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, and IOC President Thomas Bach. The performance included a heartfelt message on the humanitarian efforts of the Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation (THF), which resonated deeply with the audience and the Pope himself.
In May 2017, World Taekwondo President Dr. Chungwon Choue had the extraordinary privilege of meeting Pope Francis in Saint Peter’s Square and presented His Holiness with an honorary 10th dan black belt, the highest rank in Taekwondo. The meeting highlighted the Pope’s appreciation for the values of discipline, respect, and peace that Taekwondo embodies, as well as his support for World Taekwondo’s humanitarian programs in refugee camps and disaster-affected regions.
In May 2018, the World Taekwondo Demonstration Team once again had the honor of performing in front of Pope Francis during the General Audience at St. Peter’s Square. The demonstration concluded with a powerful message: “Peace is more precious than triumph,” echoing both the Pope’s values and World Taekwondo’s mission.
Most notably, in November 2021, the Vatican officially joined the World Taekwondo family with the recognition of Athletica Vatican – Vatican Taekwondo as the federation’s 211th member. This historic inclusion reflects the deep connection forged between World Taekwondo and the Vatican, united by a shared belief in the power of sport to promote dignity, solidarity, and inclusion.
“Pope Francis was a moral compass to the world and a true friend to the World Taekwondo community,” said World Taekwondo President Choue. “We were honored by his support and inspired by his vision of peace through compassion and action. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who believe in the transformative power of sport.”
World Taekwondo mourns the loss of a global spiritual leader and extends its prayers to the Holy See and all people around the world touched by the grace of Pope Francis.
