18 UPDF Soldiers Complete Year-Long Taekwondo Course

Eighteen outstanding Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) soldiers have completed a one-year Taekwondo course at Kukkiwon, the World Taekwondo Headquarters, under the second intake of the programme. The pass-out ceremony was held at Onomo Hotel in Kampala.

Presiding over the event, the Joint Staff Training and Doctrine (TRADOC), Brig Gen Wycliffe Keita, said the course equips soldiers not only with world-class martial arts skills but also with the discipline, respect and perseverance that define the UPDF ethos. He noted that the soldiers now join a growing team of skilled Taekwondo practitioners who will inspire excellence across the force.

“You will be instrumental in cascading your skills to other soldiers, further enhancing the UPDF’s capabilities and contributing to our mission of defending our nation and promoting regional and global peace and security,” Brig Gen Keita said.

He commended the vision of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Commander-In-Chief, and the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for supporting initiatives that allow soldiers to pursue excellence and expand their professional capacity.

Brig Gen Keita highlighted the Uganda-Korea partnership as a strong example of cooperation and mutual respect, noting that the Republic of Korea has often generously shared its expertise to support the UPDF’s growth.

The Defence Attaché of the Republic of Korea to Uganda, Lt Col Kim Seha, said the continued progress of the programme reflects the professionalism and commitment of the UPDF and stands as a practical model of cooperation between the two countries.

He observed that defence collaboration is strengthened not only through strategic dialogue but also through hands-on initiatives such as this training, which foster discipline, readiness and mutual understanding.

“The combined efforts of the master and the trainees have elevated UPDF Taekwondo training into an important pillar of our defence cooperation,” Lt Col Seha said. He expressed confidence that the discipline and resilience gained from the course will enhance the soldiers’ performance in their military duties and future roles.

Kukkiwon-dispatched Master Kwangjoo Kim congratulated the graduates and urged them to apply their skills in service to their country. He reminded them that earning a black belt represents more than technical ability.

“You are now recognised as Taekwondo black belts. Being a black belt means carrying responsibility and living the true spirit of Taekwondo,” he said, encouraging them to uphold that pride and continue growing as strong soldiers and better citizens.

The ceremony was attended by Senior and Junior Officers from the Training Department.