In recognition of Dr. Choue, President Tokayev presented the Order of Friendship
ASTANA, Kazakhstan (Aug. 12, 2025) – World Taekwondo President Chungwon Choue today paid a courtesy visit to H.E. Kassym-Jomart Kemelovich Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and presented him with an honorary 9th dan black belt in recognition of his steadfast support for the development of Taekwondo in the country.
President Choue is in Astana for the upcoming Kazakhstan Open and was received at the Akorda Presidential Palace this morning. Joining the meeting were Gennadiy Gennadyevich Golovkin, President of the National Olympic Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan; Yerbol Kuantaevich Myrzabossynov, Minister of Tourism and Sports; and Kudrat Shamiyev, President of the Kazakhstan Taekwondo Federation.
H.E. President Tokayev welcomed the visit as a significant event for Kazakhstan’s sporting community, underscoring that it demonstrates World Taekwondo’s readiness to provide comprehensive support for the sport’s continued growth in the country. He described Taekwondo not only as an Olympic discipline but also as a philosophy founded on harmony, discipline, and mutual respect — values that unite millions around the world.
The Head of State noted that hosting the G1-ranked Kazakhstan Open 2025 in the capital would present valuable opportunities for Kazakh athletes to refine their skills, exchange experience, and strengthen the competitiveness of the national program. He expressed confidence that, through joint efforts, Taekwondo’s popularity in Kazakhstan will continue to flourish, fostering deeper bonds between communities.
In return, President Choue expressed his heartfelt gratitude to H.E. President Tokayev for his hospitality and unwavering commitment to Taekwondo’s development. He praised the high level of organization for the forthcoming tournament and commended the outstanding achievements of Kazakh athletes on the international stage.
In recognition of his contributions, H.E. President Tokayev presented President Choue with the Order of Friendship of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Kazakhstan was recently selected as the host for the World Taekwondo Grand Prix Final and Gala Awards in 2026, a decision confirmed at the World Taekwondo Council meeting in May in Fujairah, UAE.
The Kazakhstan Open 2025 will take place from August 14–16 at the Martial Arts Palace in Astana, bringing together more than 750 athletes from 23 countries.
