International Taekwondo Day is observed worldwide every September 4, celebrating the martial art of taekwondo. This observance was initiated by World Taekwondo, formerly known as the World Taekwondo Federation, and first celebrated in South Korea, the birthplace of taekwondo. The date was chosen because it marks the anniversary of the International Olympic Committee's adoption of taekwondo as an Olympic discipline in 1994. Taekwondo itself began to take shape shortly after World War II with the establishment of martial art schools called kwans in Seoul, drawing from traditional Korean martial arts and incorporating elements of Chinese martial arts and karate. The day is marked by various events, including competitions, demonstrations, and concerts, aimed at both martial artists and those interested in this dynamic sport.