Manipur BJP MLA Becomes First Indian to Earn 5th Dan in Taekwondo
Yumnam Khemchand Singh, a former Manipur Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party MLA, has become the first Indian to receive the 5th Dan black belt in the traditional taekwondo art form. The certification was issued by a panel of six grand masters led by Jun Lee, president of the Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation (GTTF). The GTTF is the apex body for traditional taekwondo, separate from the World Taekwondo Federation’s sport rules. The achievement highlights growing interest in martial arts among Indian politicians and public figures, illustrating the blend of sports, culture, and public life in the region.
Yumnam Khemchand Singh awarded 5th Dan black belt in taekwondo.
Certification by a panel of six grand masters led by Jun Lee (GTTF).
GTTF governs traditional taekwondo; separate from sport-focused WT.
Notable for an Indian politician achieving high Dan rank.