Who is Grand Master Jiho Choi?
Grand Master Jiho Choi is an 8th Dan Black Belt whose lifelong dedication to Taekwondo has shaped generations of students both locally and internationally. He has spent decades sharing the discipline, philosophy, and values that define traditional Taekwondo.
His approach to teaching reflects a belief that martial arts training should develop not only physical skill, but also character, confidence, and respect.
In 1981, Grand Master Choi founded Jiho Choi Taekwondo Institute with the goal of creating a school where students of all ages could learn authentic Taekwondo in a supportive and disciplined environment. Over the years, the school has become a cornerstone of the community, training countless students and guiding many along the path to black belt and beyond.
Under his leadership, the school has remained rooted in the traditional values of courtesy, integrity, self-control, respect, and indomitable spirit.
Beyond the dojang…
Grand Master Choi’s commitment to expanding the reach and future of Taekwondo has also shaped his work with the next generation of athletes. Since 1986, he has served as head instructor for the Princeton University Taekwondo program, guiding generations of collegiate athletes in both competition and traditional training. He has also trained cadets at the United States Military Academy at West Point since 2001, where his instruction has introduced future military leaders to the discipline, focus, and values at the heart of Taekwondo.
…And around the world
His influence extends far beyond the training floor. From the moment Taekwondo appeared as a demonstration sport at the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games, Grand Master Choi played a key role in advancing its path to official Olympic recognition at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.
In the years since, he has continued to expand Taekwondo’s global footprint, serving as a member of the International Olympic Committee, President of the Pan American Taekwondo Union (PATU), and as a global ambassador representing the sport at institutions such as the United Nations and the Vatican.
Grand Master Jiho Choi has worked with the following organizations
