Our Story &
Heritage
From the original Moo Duk Kwan in Seoul to a global organization — the story of how authentic Taekwondo tradition has been preserved and carried forward.
Who We Are
The Global Legendary Taekwondo Headquarters (GLTKD) is the direct successor organization to the Richard Chun Taekwondo Headquarters, founded in New York City in 1964 by Grand Master Rhin Moon Richard Chun, Ph.D.
Our organization is uniquely rooted in the Korea Taekwondo MooDukKwan Association — one of the original nine kwans that formed the foundation of modern Taekwondo. This distinguishes us from organizations primarily aligned with the Kukkiwon, as our lineage traces directly to the Moo Duk Kwan tradition of martial virtue and holistic development.
Today, GLTKD is led by Grand Master Fred Kouefati, a 9th Dan black belt personally appointed by Grand Master Richard Chun as his successor. Under his leadership, we continue to provide Taekwondo schools worldwide with authentic certifications, structured curriculum, and belt promotion licensing.
Our Mission
To preserve and promote the authentic traditions of the Moo Duk Kwan, providing schools with recognized certifications and comprehensive curriculum rooted in true Taekwondo heritage.
Our Vision
A global network of Taekwondo schools united by authentic MooDukKwan lineage, upholding the highest standards of martial virtue, technical excellence, and character development.
Our Core Values
Our Leadership
Grand Master Richard Chun
Ph.D. | 9th Dan | 1935–2017
Pioneer who brought authentic Taekwondo to America. Trained at the original Moo Duk Kwan, founded the Richard Chun Taekwondo Center in NYC in 1964, and dedicated his life to martial virtue.
Read Full BiographyGrand Master Fred Kouefati
9th Dan | President, GLTKD
Personally appointed by Grand Master Richard Chun as his successor. A devoted student who stood by Dr. Chun's side for decades, carrying forward the authentic MooDukKwan heritage.
Contact Grand MasterOur History
Eight decades of Taekwondo heritage, from the original Moo Duk Kwan in Seoul to a global organization.
Moo Duk Kwan founded in Korea — one of the original nine kwans of Taekwondo.
Grand Master Richard Chun begins training at age 11 under Grand Master Chong Soo Hong.
Dr. Chun graduates from Yonsei University, having served as captain of the Taekwondo club.
Dr. Chun immigrates to the United States, beginning his mission to bring authentic Taekwondo to America.
Richard Chun Taekwondo Center established in New York City — a mecca for practitioners worldwide.
Dr. Chun appointed head coach of the U.S.A. Taekwondo Team; leads them to 2nd place at the inaugural World Championships.
United States Taekwondo Association (USTA) founded by Dr. Chun.
Dr. Chun ranked 9th Dan by the Moo Duk Kwan.
Dr. Chun plays a crucial role in organizing Taekwondo as a demonstration event at the Seoul Olympic Games.
Dr. Chun inducted into the Taekwondo Hall of Fame.
Grand Master Richard Chun passes away on November 15, 2017. Grand Master Fred Kouefati appointed as successor.
Global Legendary Taekwondo Headquarters continues Dr. Chun's legacy under Grand Master Fred Kouefati, 9th Dan.
MooDukKwan & Kukkiwon
While the Kukkiwon serves as the World Taekwondo headquarters and is associated with the Olympic sport, the Moo Duk Kwan represents one of the original traditional schools of Korean martial arts — predating the Kukkiwon by decades.
GLTKD's certification is rooted in this original kwan tradition, making us the ideal organization for schools that want to honor the complete heritage of Taekwondo — its philosophy, history, and martial virtue — not just its sport competition aspect.
Explore Our Certifications