World Taekwondo has expressed its profound sorrow at the passing of the 88-year-old, extending condolences to the global Catholic community. The organisation commemorated the meaningful relationship it fostered with the late Pope, who recognised sport’s capacity to promote social harmony and hope. Pope Francis was remembered by World Taekwondo as a beacon of peace, compassion, and unity, whose influence transcended religious and cultural boundaries. His humility and unwavering commitment to humanity deeply resonated with the values promoted by the taekwondo community. A key moment in their relationship occurred in October 2016 when Pope Francis hosted the 1st Global Conference on Faith & Sport at the Vatican.
During the opening ceremony of this event, themed “Sport at the Service of Humanity,” the World Taekwondo Demonstration Team performed before Pope Francis, then-UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, and IOC President Thomas Bach. The performance included a poignant message highlighting the humanitarian efforts of the Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation (THF), which was met with deep resonance from those present, including the Pope himself. In May 2017, World Taekwondo President Dr Chungwon Choue had a notable meeting with Pope Francis in Saint Peter’s Square. On this occasion, Choue presented himwith an honorary 10th dan black belt, the highest rank in taekwondo.
