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SAMOKOV, BULGARIA — The rhythmic sound of striking mats and spirited shouts filled the air in Samokov as the Ambassador’s Cup Taekwondo Championship made a triumphant return. Organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Bulgaria in collaboration with the Bulgaria Taekwondo Federation, the event marked a significant milestone in the cultural and sporting exchange between the two nations.

A Grand Return After a Three-Year Hiatus

The championship, which had been suspended for the past three years due to budgetary constraints, was revitalized under the leadership of the current South Korean Ambassador, Kim Dong-bae. His commitment to restoring the event underscores the importance of "sports diplomacy" in strengthening bilateral ties.

"Taekwondo is more than just a sport; it is a bridge that connects the hearts of Koreans and Bulgarians," Ambassador Kim stated during the opening ceremony. He pledged to continue providing unwavering support to ensure the martial art flourishes within the country.

Competition Highlights and Royal Attendance

The tournament saw approximately 500 athletes from across the region competing in three primary disciplines:

Kyorugi (Sparring): High-energy matches demonstrating speed and tactical prowess.
Poomsae (Forms): Disciplined displays of traditional techniques and focus.
Gyeokpa (Breaking): Showcases of power and precision through the breaking of wooden boards.
The prestige of the event was further elevated by the presence of high-profile dignitaries. Notable attendees included Princess Kalina of Bulgaria, who has shown a consistent interest in cultural sports, and Angel Schorgov, the Mayor of Samokov. Their attendance highlighted the high level of local institutional support for Taekwondo.

Historical Context and the Growth of Taekwondo in Bulgaria

Taekwondo was first introduced to Bulgaria in 1976. Over the nearly five decades since its arrival, it has evolved from a niche martial art into a mainstream sport with deep roots.

Currently, the infrastructure for the sport in Bulgaria includes:

34 active Taekwondo Dojangs (training halls) registered across the country.
Over 11,000 practitioners, ranging from young children to elite athletes.
A growing reputation on the European stage, with Bulgarian athletes increasingly appearing in international podium finishes.
A Future of Cultural Synergy

Beyond the physical competition, the Ambassador’s Cup serves as a platform for cultural immersion. For many Bulgarian youths, Taekwondo is their first point of contact with Korean culture, leading to increased interest in the Korean language, cuisine, and history.

As the event concluded, the Embassy expressed its intention to expand the scope of the tournament in future years, potentially incorporating Korean cultural festivals and K-Pop performances to create a holistic celebration of the "Korean Wave" (Hallyu) alongside the martial spirit of Taekwondo.