2026 Fundraising Event – click here for picture from the day.
The 2026 Korean Exchange Programme officially got underway with an unforgettable special training session, bringing together members of our Taekwondo family for a day of learning, inspiration, and community spirit.
We were incredibly fortunate to welcome Olympians Rebecca and Bradly Sinden, whose outstanding coaching, knowledge, and enthusiasm made the session a fantastic experience for everyone involved. Their willingness to support the programme and share their expertise with our students is something we are truly grateful for.
The event was not only a brilliant day on the mats but also a huge success in supporting this year’s exchange. Thanks to the incredible generosity of everyone who attended, we raised a record-breaking amount in donations towards the 2026 Korean Exchange Programme. Every contribution helps make this unique opportunity possible for our participants.
This year’s programme promises to be an exciting one. In July, our group will travel for the first leg of the exchange, where participants will immerse themselves in Korean culture, train at the birthplace of Taekwondo, and build lasting friendships with our Korean partners. It is an experience that extends far beyond training, offering invaluable cultural exchange and personal development opportunities.
This special training event has provided the perfect launchpad for the months ahead, and we can’t wait to share our journey with everyone as we prepare for our trip and, ultimately, our time in Korea.
Thank you once again to everyone who trained, donated, volunteered and supported the day. Your encouragement and generosity continue to make this programme possible, and we’re excited to take you along on the journey as the 2026 Korean Exchange Programme begins.
Background –
Over the past two decades Caledonian Taekwondo has run a sporting and cultural exchange programme with Pung Saeng High School, Seongnam, South Korea, led by Dr John Cullen.
The programme commemorates the life of Lee Sung Lee, a young Pung Saeng High School student who tragically died of cancer aged just 16. Each year we remember his life and times. We pay tribute to the martial art that meant so much to Lee Sung Lee and to so many worldwide. In 2002, prior to his passing, Lee Sung lee provided his home for 6 weeks to members of the Caledonian Team. The following year he was supposed to stay with members of Caledonian Taekwondo for 6 weeks, the programme is now a multi decade tribute.
Videos from 2007 exchange programme onwards.
There are many ways that we raise money for the programme; personal donations, support of multinational companies, local entrepreneurs, and centres of academic excellence.
