Our History
The United Taekwondo Association was founded by Grandmaster Kyongwon Ahn as part of his lifelong commitment to advancing Taekwondo through strong standards, disciplined training, and responsible leadership. From its beginnings in Cincinnati, the UTA has grown into a multi-generational organization that connects schools, instructors, Black Belts, and students through a shared tradition.
The Beginning
Grandmaster Kyongwon Ahn came to Cincinnati in 1967 and began teaching Taekwondo at a time when the art was still relatively new in the United States. Through his instruction, leadership, and commitment to high standards, he helped establish a strong foundation for Taekwondo in the region. As his schools and students grew, so did the need for greater consistency, organization, and continuity.
Founding of the UTA
In 1971, Grandmaster Ahn established the United Taekwondo Association to create greater consistency, structure, and unity. The UTA provided a framework for maintaining rank standards, guiding promotion testing, supporting instructors, and preserving a common approach to traditional Taekwondo.
National & Olympic Leadership
1988 Seoul Olympics
Grandmaster Ahn served in a leadership role with the U.S. Olympic Taekwondo Team during the Seoul Games, where the art was a demonstration sport.
1992 Barcelona Olympics
Continuing his contribution to international recognition, he helped lead the United States team during the Barcelona Olympic Games.
National Leadership
From 1986 through 1992, Grandmaster Ahn served as President of the United States Taekwondo Union, guiding the sport at the national level.
A Legacy of Leadership
Throughout his career, Grandmaster Ahn has emphasized that Taekwondo is more than technical skill or physical achievement. His teaching has focused on discipline, character, leadership, responsibility, and the obligation of senior practitioners to guide those who follow them. Through decades of instruction, he has developed generations of students who have become masters in their own right, preserving the standards while mentoring the next wave of martial artists.
Historical Timeline
1967
Grandmaster Kyongwon Ahn came to Cincinnati and began teaching Taekwondo.
1971
The United Taekwondo Association was established to provide greater consistency and unity among affiliated schools.
1986–1992
Grandmaster Ahn served as President of the US Taekwondo Union and led the US Olympic Taekwondo teams in 1988 and 1992.
2000
Taekwondo became an official full-medal Olympic sport at the Sydney Olympic Games.
Today
The UTA continues to preserve Grandmaster Ahn’s legacy through education, mentorship, and leadership development.
The UTA Today
Today, the United Taekwondo Association continues the work established by Grandmaster Ahn by providing structure, continuity, and leadership for the schools and practitioners connected to his tradition. The organization serves as a beacon of excellence, fostering growth and maintaining the highest standards of martial arts training across generations.