Jun Chul Shin, Translation by: Richard Lee (2008/09/13)
http://www.mookas.us/media_view.asp?news_no=1395
On September 11, I met the head of Kukkiwon Um Woon Gyu at a restaurant. Compared to previous times, the President of Kukkiwon looked very peaceful. As soon as I mentioned, "You look good", he quickly responded, "I think it's because my mind is at ease". Last June, Um Woon Gyu submitted his letter of resignation. He revealed opinions that he was not able to express before. "I have been together with Kukkiwon from the beginning. I have more love for Kukikwon than anyone can imagine. Then why I have submitted the letter of resignation. I have participated in the picket rally in front of the church the Seoul Committee has attended for more than 30 years. As soon as this occurred, Kukkiwon told me there is no need for me to be humiliated and stay here at Kukkiwon. Kukkiwon asked me to resign." In President Um's opinion, Kukkiwon is not performing to its potential. He believes the solution depends on the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism to change the law. "Many people believe instead of In Cheon Yoo, I should remain to finish the job, but in order for Kukkiwon to have a new beginning, I should take a step back. Kukkiwon and the government will work cooperatively and follow a capable leader". He added, "no matter what the situation, there is no way I will return to Kukkiwon". From the outside, many people are complaining about President Um's continuing work at Kukkiwon. He stated, "I believe I needed to finish what I have started so that once our president gets inducted, he will start on a clean slate. I am frustrated because they are complaining about the few times that I went in". Soon after, we dropped the serious subject and had conversations about past TKD stories, army stories, TKD society and TKD personnel experiences. It seemed as though everything we talked about will probably written into a book.Lastly, the resignation topic came up. President Um said, "I don't want to make a deal about it. I just want to be able to leave on a happy note". He added, "I want to retire within this year". After dinner, going our separate ways, I noticed he looked light at feet and peaceful. Unfortunately, the person to take his position will bare a heavy burden.
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