Monroe Small Business Spotlight: World Champion Taekwondo

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this exciting series — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

• Business: World Champion Taekwondo
• Owner: Master Kim
• Address: 292 Elm Street, Monroe

How did you come up with the name?

World Champion Taekwondo: Most Masters in the World Champion Taekwondo affiliated schools are literally world champions in this sport. Master Kim is a 6th degree black belt who was Korean National Champion twice, and World Champion twice.

Why start a business in this town?

Master Kim started his school 15 years ago. At that time, there were not many martial arts schools in the area.

Briefly, what business are you in?

Martial Arts training, specifically, a Korean martial art. Tae kwon do means “foot,” “hand,” “way.”

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

Master Kim’s most difficult challenge has been in encouraging students to have better attitudes, respect and behavior towards school and parents.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

Master Kim is proud of his students who have continued in their Taekwondo training to win medals at competitions, because he himself was a champion. He is also most proud when parents tell him that their children have improved greatly in their attitude and respect.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

We provide gift certificates to schools, churches and family/educational organizations for their auctions and raffles (Please contact annette.taekwondo@yahoo.com if you are interested in certificates for your organization.) Master Kim has volunteered at before school programs, and has given martial arts demonstrations in the parks.

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email wendy.mitchell@patch.com.