Manipur BJP legislator first Indian to receive 5th Dan in traditional taekwondo

For enthusiasts and followers of conventional martial arts, the achievement of reaching a high Dan rank in taekwondo represents a significant milestone. Many seek to understand the journey and recognition involved in attaining such prestigious levels, especially within the traditional styles distinct from Olympic taekwondo. This article highlights the remarkable accomplishment of an Indian martial artist who has set a new benchmark in the traditional taekwondo community.It also sheds light on the differences between traditional and Olympic forms, the global organizations governing the art, and the impact of this achievement on the sport’s growth in India.

Breaking New Ground: India’s First 5th Dan Black Belt in Traditional Taekwondo

Yumnam Khemchand singh, a former minister from Manipur and a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has made history by becoming the first Indian to be awarded the 5th Dan black belt in the traditional style of taekwondo. This prestigious certification was officially presented to him on December 30, 2025, in Seoul by Mayong Suk, the vice president of the Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation (GTTF). The award came over a year after Mr. Singh successfully passed the promotion test in October 2024.

Understanding Traditional Taekwondo and Its Governing Bodies

The Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation (GTTF), led by President Jun Jee and a panel of six grandmasters, is the highest authority overseeing the traditional form of taekwondo. Unlike the Olympic version, traditional taekwondo emphasizes a broader range of self-defense techniques, including intricate hand strikes, blocks, and low stances that enhance stability and power. This style preserves the martial art’s original philosophy and combat applications, distinguishing it from the sport-focused Olympic discipline.

The certificate awarded to Mr. Singh was endorsed by these grandmasters, underscoring the rigorous standards and respect associated with the 5th Dan rank. The traditional style’s focus on thorough self-defense skills continues to attract practitioners worldwide,with organizations like the GTTF playing a crucial role in maintaining its authenticity.

Challenges and Recognition Amidst Regional Turmoil

Although Mr. Singh earned his 5th Dan rank in October 2024, he was unable to travel to Seoul immediately due to the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur.This delay did not diminish the meaning of his achievement, which was later celebrated by the Sangrok World Taekwondo Academy, a Seoul-based institution affiliated with the World Taekwondo Federation. The academy,which operates over 70 branches globally,praised Mr. Singh for his unwavering commitment and his instrumental role in promoting taekwondo across india.

Grandmaster Chang Seong Dong, the academy’s technical director, highlighted Mr. Singh’s dedication as a key factor in expanding the martial art’s reach, especially in regions where traditional martial arts face challenges due to socio-political issues.

Legacy and Contributions to Indian Taekwondo

At 62 years old, Yumnam Khemchand Singh has been a stalwart in the Indian taekwondo community since he began training at the age of 16.In 1982, he established the all Assam Taekwondo Association, laying the groundwork for the sport’s advancement in northeastern India. His efforts in the early 1980s were pivotal in popularizing taekwondo as a competitive sport and in the formation of the Taekwondo Federation of India, which continues to govern the sport nationally.

His journey reflects the broader narrative of martial arts growth in India, where traditional disciplines are gaining renewed interest amid modern sporting trends.

Crucial Facts: Key Points to Remember

• Yumnam Khemchand Singh is the first indian to receive the 5th Dan black belt in traditional taekwondo.
• The 5th Dan certificate was awarded on December 30,2025,in seoul by Mayong Suk,vice president of the Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation (GTTF).
• The GTTF is led by President Jun Jee and six grandmasters who oversee traditional taekwondo standards.
• Traditional taekwondo focuses on self-defense,hand techniques,and low stances,differing from Olympic taekwondo.
• Mr. Singh earned the 5th Dan rank in October 2024 but received the certificate later due to ethnic conflict in Manipur.
• The Sangrok World Taekwondo Academy, affiliated with the World Taekwondo Federation, recognized his contributions.
• Mr. Singh founded the All Assam Taekwondo Association in 1982 and helped establish the Taekwondo Federation of India.
• He began practicing taekwondo at age 16 and has been influential in promoting the sport in northeastern India.
• The sangrok Academy has over 70 branches worldwide, emphasizing the global reach of taekwondo.
• Traditional taekwondo maintains a focus on martial discipline and self-defense beyond competitive sport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What distinguishes traditional taekwondo from Olympic taekwondo? Traditional taekwondo emphasizes comprehensive self-defense techniques, including hand strikes and low stances, whereas Olympic taekwondo focuses more on sport competition and scoring points through kicks.

Q: Who is Yumnam Khemchand Singh? Yumnam Khemchand Singh is a former Manipur minister and BJP MLA who became the first Indian to earn the 5th Dan black belt in traditional taekwondo.

Q: What is the Global Traditional Taekwondo federation (GTTF)? The GTTF is the leading international association governing traditional taekwondo, headed by President Jun Jee and a council of grandmasters.

Q: Why was there a delay in Mr. Singh receiving his 5th dan certificate? The certificate presentation was postponed due to ethnic conflicts in Manipur, which prevented Mr. Singh from traveling to Seoul immediately after earning the rank.

Q: How has Mr. Singh contributed to the growth of taekwondo in India? he founded the All Assam Taekwondo Association in 1982, helped establish the Taekwondo Federation of India, and has been a key promoter of the martial art in northeastern India.