Photo by: AFP

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art and combat sport known for its devastating high kicks, but in which hand strikes are also permitted. In 1955, Korean martial artists chose it as their country's definitive martial art, and in 2000, it was recognised as an Olympic sport.

Li said that he and the other two trainers hope to teach their Lebanese students patience, self-control, respect for others and protection of the weak -- all principles of the sport. "Through taekwondo we want to spread a message of peace, friendship and trust," said Kim Ki-Boem, one of the other trainers.
And the message does seem to be getting through.

Since the contingent arrived in July 2007, 400 young girls and boys aged seven to 15 have signed up for classes, which are offered in five villages twice a week. "We're overwhelmed by the demand," Kim said. "The classes are free of charge and we provide the uniforms."

The contingent uses space provided by local municipalities, putting in matted areas and proper equipment. Interpreters help to get the message across to the students during classes.
Although girls make up only 10 percent of the students, the mayor of the village of Abassiya, Abdullah Ferdun, says this is a fair number considering he had to convince parents to let their daughters participate in a sport often thought to be violent and to be in contact with boys. "I argued with the parents that taekwondo is not only for the male sex," Ferdun told AFP. "I said that the sport will help their daughters develop self-defence skills that can protect them."

Walaa Ayoub, who is hoping to earn her yellow belt soon, says she cannot agree more. "Protecting the weak and defending those who can benefit from our physical force are the main principles of taekwondo," she said. "And it also helps create equilibrium between the body and mind."

Hussein Farfour, 13, another student, said he has become addicted to the sport and hopes to one day reach the rank of master in taekwondo. "The sport didn't exist in our region before," said Farfour who trains six hours a week and even speaks a few South Korean words and phrases learned from his trainers. "And the Koreans are a kind people, who are strong like us and want peace."