The event saw the Kukkiwon's demonstration team break boards and perform with traditional Korean drums as eight army leaders from across the peninsula were honoured during the festival.

A "Unifying the world with taekwondo" theme dominated proceedings as the sport's students competed in sparring, board braking, hand striking and speed kicking disciplines.

"This is my second time coming [to Kukkiwon]," said Specialist Jose Ortiz from the 61st Support Maintenanxe Company, who represented the 2nd Infantry Division/Republic of Korea-US Combined Division.

Ortiz studies under Grandmaster Kim at Camp Casey in South Korea.

"It’s really a privilege to be here," he said.

Soldiers from taekwondo clubs across South Korea took part in the festival, with the top competitors in each category being rated and judged by Kukkiwon staff members.

Members of the Kukkiwon club, considered a breeding ground for world taekwondo talents, performed at the 2014 Asian Games Closing Ceremony in Incheon.