A Landmark Legal Battle That Could Reshape the Future of Taekwondo
March 17, 2025 – In a bold and unprecedented move, Rick W. Shin, President of Kombat Taekwondo (KT), has issued a Final Legal Notice to World Taekwondo (WT), demanding an immediate Cease and Desist Order over what he calls blatant violations of international sports law and an unlawful campaign of blacklisting athletes, coaches, officials, and national federations.
The notice follows an extensive investigation that uncovered systematic discrimination, coercion, and anti-competitive practices by WT, actions that threaten the fundamental rights of Taekwondo practitioners worldwide. This legal action could mark a turning point in the governance of Taekwondo, challenging WT’s authority and long-standing monopoly over the sport.
Legal Notice to World Taekwondo Immediate Cease and Desist Order
The Allegations: A Global Sports Scandal
According to evidence compiled by Kombat Taekwondo, WT has engaged in multiple violations of international law, including:
- Unlawful Blacklisting of Athletes and Federations – WT has implemented punitive policies against individuals and federations who participate in non-WT events, effectively banning them from competing in international competitions and stripping them of career opportunities.
- Violation of International Competition Rights – WT’s restrictive policies seek to monopolize the Taekwondo industry, preventing athletes, coaches, and referees from exercising their right to compete and work in independent events.
- Breach of Olympic and Fair Play Principles – WT’s actions violate Article 15 of the Olympic Charter, which prohibits discrimination and coercion in sports.
- Violation of Fair Trade and Anti-Competition Laws – WT’s exclusionary policies violate competition laws in key markets, including the European Union, the United States, and the Asia-Pacific region.
- Intimidation and Coercion of National Federations – WT has allegedly pressured national governing bodies with threats of suspension or expulsion if they do not comply with its restrictive mandates.
Rick W. Shin: ‘This Is a Direct Attack on the Spirit of Martial Arts’
In a firm statement, Rick W. Shin did not hold back:
«The blacklisting of athletes, coaches, and national federations is a direct attack on the very spirit of martial arts and the principles of fairness, integrity, and freedom of choice that Taekwondo was built upon. We will not allow this blatant abuse of power to continue. WT must immediately cease its discriminatory policies or face further legal consequences.»
Shin’s decisive legal action signals an escalation in the battle for fair governance in Taekwondo. His leadership of Kombat Taekwondo has been marked by a commitment to openness, inclusivity, and professional competition, challenging the outdated and restrictive structures enforced by WT.
A Global Call to Action
Kombat Taekwondo is urging athletes, national federations, and the wider Taekwondo community to take a stand against WT’s practices. If WT fails to comply with the legal notice, further legal measures will be taken to hold them accountable and protect the rights of Taekwondo practitioners worldwide.
The Future of Taekwondo Governance Hangs in the Balance
This case could set a precedent for martial arts governance worldwide. The outcome will determine whether Taekwondo remains under restrictive control or evolves into a truly open and inclusive sport where athletes, coaches, and federations are free to make their own decisions.
This is more than a legal battle—it is a fight for the future of Taekwondo.
Stay tuned as this developing story unfolds.
