The event is co-organised by the Korean Cultural Center in Vietnam and the Vietnam Taekwondo Federation, marking 20 years of Vietnam-Korea diplomatic ties.

As many as 491 martial artists representing 59 clubs will compete in 32 combat event categories and 13 demonstration event categories.

The event is a good chance to seek potential outstanding athletes, checking domestic referee skills, preparing for upcoming tournaments, and mutual understanding among artists and organizers, said the organizing board in a press conference held in Hanoi on December 11.

The combat events divide athletes into two age groups. The 13 -16 years old (who was born between 1996-1999) group will be considered for further training in anticipation of the 2014 Summer Youth Olympics and 2019 Asian Games campaigns.

Athletes aged 17-years-old and above are hoping for 2013 SEA Games and 2014 ASIAD national squad selections.

The Korean Cultural Center in Vietnam has invited Kukkiwon taekwondo team to perform in the tournament’s opening ceremony. Besides, there will be a friendly match between a team from Keimyung University and the Vietnam national team at the closing ceremony./.

CPV