YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea - Shattered bricks, displays of martial prowess and lots of kicking were on display May 21 at Yongsan Garrison during the ROK-U.S. Army Friendship Combat Taekwondo Exhibition.
The annual event featured Soldiers from both the U.S. and Republic of Korea armies working, and fighting, together during a day of demonstrations and competition in celebration of the 63rd year of the Republic of Korea-U.S. alliance.
"The taekwondo event today strengthens the alliance between the ROK and the U.S. Army" said Sgt. 1st Class David R. Gery, 8th Army G9 Operations "It is great that the event was held through [Morale Welfare and Recreation] so the community of U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan was also able to enjoy the event."
The event consisted of eight Republic of Korea Army and U.S. Army teams with a total of 253 participants engaging in events such as breaking, choreographed demonstrations and one-on-one fighting competitions.
"I was surprised by the U.S. Soldiers' remarkable fighting skills and I hope that there will be more events like this in the future." said Lee Kang-Min, leader of ROK 3rd Army Taekwondo Instructors Group.
The event continued with the demonstrations of taekwondo performed by professionals from the ROK Army followed by one-on-one mixed martial arts finals.
The event ended with an awards ceremony. With the highest overall score, the ROK 1st Army took first place.
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