- 09:15
At Dekwaneh, the President Émile Lahoud Sports Complex pulsed to the rhythm of the South Korean Ambassador’s Cup: a symbolic handshake between Federation President Habib Zarifeh and Ambassador Kyo Suk Gyun, strong messages, nods to champions, and the launch of a 100% taekwondo weekend.
At the microphone, Habib Zarifeh set the tone: the Ambassador’s Cup is not a mere calendar date; it symbolizes a technical and human bond between the Embassy of the Republic of Korea and the Lebanese Taekwondo Federation. “Support, transmission, nationwide development”: the roadmap is clear, the ambition unapologetic.
A Message to the Champions… and to Those Coming Through
A warm nod to Sarah Saliba, qualified for this month’s Deaflympics in Tokyo. Zarifeh used the moment to restate the priority given to para-athletes and young people with “strong will,” with a direct invitation to families: push, encourage, accompany. Lebanese taekwondo aims to widen its base, build on role models, and multiply pathways to performance.
The Voice from Seoul
Smiling and at ease, Kyo Suk Gyun returned the courtesy: congratulations to the clubs, respect for international results, and a renewed promise of long-term Korean support. Words turned to deeds as the ambassador extended the protocol segment with a round of distinctions.
Tributes and Passing the Torch
Trophies and certificates flew like pennants: a shield of honor for the ambassador, for Master Son O. Park (envoy from Korea), and for the commander of the Higher Center for Military Sport (represented by Major Daniel Khairallah). Then waves of applause for the tutelary figures: Grand Master Anwar Nehmeh, Grand Master Georges Khattar, Grand Master Alan Najem, Grand Master Fadi Nablusi, Grand Master Daniel Khorasandjian, and champion Sarah Saliba. In the wake of the tributes, an artistic breaking show led by Nablusi brought the crowd to its feet.
Game On
Curtain down on the ceremony, competition up and running. On the mats, categories roll on, clubs trade blows, and officiating sets the tempo. The Ambassador’s Cup keeps its DNA: a laboratory of level, a showcase for the next generation, a meeting point between Korean tradition and Lebanese energy.
Final Word
At Mar Roukoz, the message landed: Zarifeh at the helm, Kyo Suk Gyun in support, and an ecosystem pushing together. Lebanese taekwondo has found its line of conduct—respect for masters, attention to detail, an international horizon—and it advances, united, toward the next challenges.
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