Published: September 8, 2025
PAYNESVILLE — The Liberia Taekwondo Federation joined the global celebration of World Taekwondo Day over the weekend, commemorating the martial art’s recognition as an Olympic sport and calling for greater investment in grassroots development.
World Taekwondo Day is observed annually on Sept. 4 to mark the sport’s inclusion in the Olympic Games during the 103rd International Olympic Committee session in Paris in 1994. The day was officially established in 2006 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, by the World Taekwondo Federation.
Master Pewee Russian of the Liberia Taekwondo Federation paid tribute to the late Grand Master Zuzu Martin, credited with introducing the sport to Liberia, and praised senior masters who have worked to preserve its legacy.
“In recognition of the importance of Taekwondo, I want to appreciate the extraordinary masters who deemed it necessary to introduce this wonderful Korean martial art that has now become a worthy way of life for millions around the world,” Russian told The Liberian Investigator.
Russian thanked the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Liberia National Olympic Committee, the People’s Republic of China, Go Team Liberia, Lucky Pharmacy and other partners for their support. He urged government leaders to do more to strengthen programs for young athletes.
“We just need support to focus on grassroots events and build a federation that is centered on athletes,” he said.
Federation Moves on Discipline
Separately, the federation announced the suspension of Instructor Luther Nagbe of Dragon Legend One Dojan in Johnsonville, effective Sept. 1.
In an official statement, officials cited violations of federation rules, breaches of safety protocols and misconduct. Nagbe has been barred from all federation-affiliated activities until further notice, including conducting classes, organizing or participating in tournaments, and using official titles, logos, uniforms or belts.
The federation said the decision reflects its commitment to upholding discipline and safety standards within the sport.
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