Grandmaster Kim Bok Man, the Singapore’s first Korean taekwondo instructor, paid a courtesy visit to the Singapore Taekwondo Federation (STF) Secretariat on 19 September 2011. In 1962, as a 5th dan black belt, he introduced Singaporeans to the amazing art of taekwondo with a spectacular demonstration of high-flying kicks and punches.
Taekwondo took roots in Singapore after the breathtaking performance.
Grandmaster Kim was welcomed by Mr Milan Kwee, STF President, who briefed him on the development of taekwondo in Singapore.
Mr Kwee told him that ‘the seed planted by Grandmaster Kim has grown into a big tree.”
Grandmaster Kim was visibly pleased with the development of his ‘baby’ and reminisced about his time in Singapore including the numerous performances. He also spoke fervently of the demonstration he gave at the now demolished Gay World Stadium. He could remember vividly the challenges he had promoting taekwondo in the early days.
After the meeting, Mr Kwee hosted a lunch for Grandmaster Kim and his entourage including his assistants, Mr Brad Shipp and Mr Simon Lee.