Taekwondo enthusiasts in the country can expect better infrastructure for the martial art. The Taekwondo Federation will be building the Bhutan Taekwondo Federation Iconic Building which can host international championships. His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck graced the Salang Tendrel for the new building today.
The project will cost around USD 6.8 M or more than Nu 550 M. Korea International Cooperation Agency or KOICA is funding the construction of the new building for the Bhutan Taekwondo Federation. According to the Bhutan Taekwondo Federation, the new building will bring with it new opportunities for the country.
“We can now have four fighting areas at the same time, with 1200 sitting capacity. Which means that now we can qualify to host the international championships in our country. We have a lot of benefits; we don’t have to send our players outside for exposure. In fact, we can invite players from different districts to watch and also participate,” said Yonten Tharchen from Bhutan Taekwondo Federation.
According to the KOICA and Bhutan Taekwondo Federation, the new building will be more than a place for Taekwondo matches and practices. With the construction of the building, divisions will be set up for the youth to learn about value education and health education. The federation has close to 24,000 members from across the country.
“Taekwondo is a very important sport, because through it, we can physically and mentally support youth. So, KOICA decided to support this project. Through this project, not will be support the construction of the building, we will also support youth development programs. Through this project we will upgrade and improve the youth in Bhutan,” said Youngah Doh, the KOICA Country Director.
The Bhutan Taekwondo Federation Iconic Building will be built where the Taekwondo hall is presently located, at the swimming pool complex. The construction will commence from September.
Karma Samten Wangda
