[Features reporter] Taekwondo brings the world together as Muju World Grand Prix Challenge wraps up

From the global stage of Taekwondo to its home here in Korea, the spotlight this weekend was on South Korea's southern county of Muju.

And Hyobeen, I heard you went there yourself?

Right Soa.

I was at one of the biggest and boldest Taekwondo competitions, the 2025 Muju World Taekwondo Grand Prix Challenge.

While sports are often about winning, what I saw here was the true spirit of sportsmanship.

Let's take a look.

The 2025 World Taekwondo Grand Prix Challenge wrapped up on Sunday at the Taekwondowon's T1 Stadium in Muju-gun County, Jeollabuk-do Province.

Over four days of competition, more than 300 athletes from 32 countries showcased their skills in front of cheering crowds.

Throughout the event, the venue was filled with cheers as matches delivered dramatic knockouts, narrow victories, and moments of pure sportsmanship.

This year, Team Korea won a total of two gold and five silver medals.

"I was disappointed with an injury at the last Grand Prix Challenge, but I'm really happy to win gold this time. The next Olympics will likely be my last, so I want to prepare well and finish without regrets."

Also, Paris Olympic gold medalist Park Tae-joon, who first won here in 2022, once again proved why he's one of Taekwondo's brightest stars.

But this year's Grand Prix Challenge in Muju was about more than just medals.

In line with the Olympic spirit of inclusion, organizers invited athletes from developing nations and those with backgrounds as refugees.

A total of five refugee athletes joined the event this year.

"In this physical preparation I did in the Taekwondo in Korea it was, I didn't try before so it was too hard for me, but a pleasure. I learned many things from Korea. I have two dreams. First of all, I would like to say about the refugee people. I would like to be a good example for the refugee people Another, my purpose of course, I want to finish my career with the Olympics medals."

Organizers said the Grand Prix Challenge aims to reflect Taekwondo's universal values.

"We often say it's '213 countries plus one'. And that 'plus one' refers to refugees. Taekwondo may be an Olympic sport, but as Korea's traditional martial art, it also stands for global peace and supports those in need."

From different corners of the world, these athletes have gathered in Muju for this challenge, to share the spirit of sports.

And in Taekwondo, they've found a bond stronger than nationality.