IOC President in the Republic of Korea - attends World Taekwondo championships

IOC President Thomas Bach was in Muju in the Republic of Korea as a guest of World Taekwondo President Chungwon Choue.

The IOC President watched some of the action, including the finals of the women's 57kg and 62kg and men's 63kg, at the Taekwondowon, the “home” of the sport.

At an impressive closing ceremony, the President was able to meet with demonstration teams from World Taekwondo and the International Taekwondo Federation, including athletes from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the Republic of Korea.

While there, he also attended the Board meeting of the Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation, during which he heard reports on some of the great work being carried out with refugees around the world.

IOC/Greg Martin

Speaking at a press conference, President Bach praised the work of the Federation: "Taekwondo is about more than just sport, it is a philosophy of life. In this respect we share the same values," he said.

The President also took part in a special Symposium on “Olympism and Good Governance”.

President Bach also met with the Korean Sports Minister, and on Monday he will meet with the new Korean President, Moon Jae-in.