"Unifying the world with taekwondo" was the theme of the event at the Kukkiwon, where the official taekwondo governing organisation was established by the South Korean Government.

Proceedings began with a ceremony that featured the Kukkiwon's demonstration team breaking boards and performing with traditional Korean drums.

Eighth Army leaders from across the peninsula were among the dignitaries honoured during the ceremony.

Following a lunch period featuring food from around the world, the action got underway.

The taekwondo students participated in competitions such as sparring, board breaking or hand striking, and speed kicking.

"This is my second time coming [to the Kukkiwon]," specialist Jose Ortiz, who is from the 61st Support Maintenance Company and represented the 2nd Infantry Division/Republic of Korea-United States Combined Division, said. 

"It’s really a privilege to be here."

Ortiz studies under Kukkiwon-affiliated Grandmaster Ki Sung Kim at Camp Casey, a US military base in Dongducheon in South Korea.

Soldiers belonging to taekwondo clubs across South Korea were invited to Gangnam.

The top competitors in each category were rated and judged by Kukkiwon staff members.

Medals were then awarded at the end of the day.