Empowering Lives Through Inclusive Taekwon-Do
In the Netherlands, David Chung stands as a dedicated advocate for inclusive and therapeutic martial arts. As the founder of Stichting Special Needs Nederland and owner of Chung Do Kwan Dojang, David has transformed personal hardship into a lifelong mission to empower others through Taekwon-Do.
“Taekwon-Do kept me going — physically, mentally, and emotionally,” David reflects. From overcoming the early loss of his mother to surviving a life-threatening battle with COVID-19, his strength has always been grounded in martial arts. While his school also teaches Kickboxing, Hapkido, and Kumdo, Taekwon-Do remains at the heart of everything they do.
🤝 A Longstanding Partnership with IITA
David’s journey with the International Inclusive Taekwon-Do Association (IITA) began in 2011 through collaboration with IITA Founder and President Ben Evans. Over time, their partnership strengthened — leading to one of the most memorable moments for his team: traveling to New Zealand to participate in an inclusive Taekwon-Do event shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It was a powerful and successful experience for everyone involved,” David says. That trip reinforced the global vision of inclusion that IITA stands for.
💡 Why Inclusive Taekwon-Do Matters
David has spent over a decade working in inclusive Taekwon-Do, and the results speak for themselves.
“It helps individuals develop character, confidence, and identity — especially those who were initially unable to stand up for themselves,” he shares.
His programs reach children, adults, and elderly students from a wide range of backgrounds and abilities. Participants often come through referrals from special needs schools, medical professionals, elderly care centers, and daycare facilities. Many live with autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, ADD, muscular and nerve disorders, early-stage Parkinson’s, or Alzheimer’s disease.
💖 Moments of Impact
David’s work has created countless unforgettable moments. During the height of the COVID-19 lockdowns, his team delivered training from outside daycare windows — ensuring students still felt connected. That compassionate act was recognized by national media in the Netherlands.
Another deeply personal moment came when a student looked at David and said, “You are like a dad to me.” From that day forward, he began calling him “Dad.” It was a heartfelt reminder of the powerful emotional bonds that form through Inclusive Taekwon-Do.
🌱 Growth, Culture, and Community
Today, David continues promoting Inclusive Taekwon-Do through regional clinics, workshops, and daily programs designed to uplift and empower.
One unique feature of his sessions is the integration of music, cultural practices, and Kicheon — a meditative component that helps students center themselves, promoting self-awareness and calm.
David also works closely with IITA Netherlands representative Hidayet Altın, building a strong and united vision for inclusive development across the country.
💬 A Message to the Global IITA Community
To IITA members around the world, David offers a message from the heart:
“Be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. Empower them. Show the world what they are capable of — because they are capable of extraordinary things. Our students deserve recognition. They are the true heroes: pure in their existence, and powerful just as they are. You just have to love them.”
Through his work in the Netherlands, David Chung exemplifies the mission of IITA — creating pathways for every person to thrive through the discipline, empowerment, and community of Inclusive Taekwon-Do.
