In a day of action dominated by three nations, Chang Jui-en of Chinese Taipei secured victory in the women’s under-57 kilograms category whilst China's Lin Wenye came out on top in the men's under-68kg contest at the Taekwondowon complex.

Chang advanced to the final after resounding wins over Thailand’s Chidchanok Mayneawklang, India’s Latika Bhandari and Korea’s Kang Myeongjin.

She faced Chen Lin of China in the showpiece fight, edging out the contest 2-1 to take gold and the $4,000 (£3,230/€3,800) prize money. 

The bronze medal match saw Kang get the better of Yang Junli of China.

Korea’s Seo Kang-eun progressed to the final by beating fellow countryman Kwon Doyun in the men's under-68kg, but came up against stern opposition in Wenye, who became champion with a 1-0 win. 

Kwon took home the bronze with victory over Chinese Taipei’s Hsu Hao-yu.

All four of the day's finalists secured a place at the Manchester 2022 World Taekwondo Grand Prix which scheduled to take place from October 21 to 23, with the competition offering a pathway for lower-ranked fighters to bigger tournaments.  

The day's fighting was followed by an Opening Ceremony, as well as a tree-planting ceremony involving World Taekwondo (WT) President Chungwon Choue and Mayor Hwang of Muju.

"I have beautiful memories of Muju, as five years ago the largest-ever World Taekwondo Championships took place here," President Choue said.

"The World Taekwondo Grand Prix Challenge is a pathway for aspiring athletes to fulfil their dreams to become Taekwondo stars. 

"So I wish you all the best and hope that you achieve your goals over the coming days."

The World Taekwondo Grand Prix Challenge only features taekwondo fighters that are below 70 in the Olympic rankings.

Tomorrow, three more weight categories will be contested with the women’s under-67kg, men’s under-58kg and men’s over 80kg.