In this exclusive interview, we spoke with Dmitrii Lian, a 6th Dan black belt, about his journey in ITF TaeKwon-Do, his achievements as an instructor, and his future plans to continue promoting this sport in Russia, Korea, and beyond.
What was your inspiration to become a TaeKwon-Do instructor? From a young age, my passion for martial arts and my desire to become a leader in the sporting field drove me to pursue the path of TaeKwon-Do. At the age of 10, I was fortunate to encounter an excellent coach who guided me throughout my journey in this sport.
How has your experience teaching TaeKwon-Do in different regions of Russia and Korea been? It has been a rewarding journey. From the Primorsky Territory to Moscow and beyond, I have had the privilege of training a diverse range of students, each with their own set of skills and challenges. Additionally, we have recently expanded our classes to cities in Korea, including Incheon, Ansan, Cheongju, and Gimpo, and this week we will be opening sections in Pentek. Seeing the growth and progress of my students is what motivates me to keep going.
What is your approach to training your students to achieve success in TaeKwon-Do? My goal has always been to prepare champions. This involves not only teaching technical skills but also instilling values such as discipline, perseverance, and respect. I believe these attributes are fundamental to success in any aspect of life.
How has your academic background in physical education and sports contributed to your approach as a TaeKwon-Do instructor? My academic background has been crucial in my development as an instructor. It has provided me with a deeper understanding of the principles of sports training and has allowed me to develop effective methods for teaching TaeKwon-Do. Additionally, it has given me the opportunity to promote TaeKwon-Do through research and education.
What are your future plans for promoting ITF TaeKwon-Do in Russia, Korea, and internationally? I am committed to further expanding ITF TaeKwon-Do in Russia and Korea. Currently, we are working on opening new dojangs in different cities and organizing more championships and events. Additionally, we are exploring opportunities to promote TaeKwon-Do internationally, including participating in international competitions and establishing partnerships with other federations.
What events and activities related to TaeKwon-Do do you have left on your calendar for this year? This year, we plan to hold at least 10 championships in Russia, and in April, we will organize our first independent championship in Korea. Additionally, we are preparing to participate in competitions in Japan scheduled for March.
Finally, what message would you like to share with the ITF TaeKwon-Do community? I want to encourage all TaeKwon-Do practitioners to continue pursuing their dreams and never give up on their goals. TaeKwon-Do is not just a sport but also a way of life that promotes personal growth and self-improvement. Together, we can continue to elevate ITF TaeKwon-Do to new heights and spread its beauty and power worldwide.