With bold leadership at Kombat Taekwondo USA, Sunny Woo Park is shaping a new era in Taekwondo, uniting practitioners globally and giving fighters an expanded platform to pursue professional recognition.
For Sunny Woo Park, also known by his legal name Kwon Woo Park, martial arts embodies a life philosophy beyond technical expertise. He embraces the true spirit built on a commitment to bringing people together, fostering inspiration, and empowering individuals. Through his stewardship, both Kombat Taekwondo USA and Master Park’s Black Belt America are setting higher standards, evolving the perception of martial arts as both a personal discipline and a career path.
He aims to bridge the fragmented Taekwondo communities worldwide, building networks that offer ascending athletes opportunities for proper recognition and professional achievement, much like the global stars of basketball and tennis.
His vision is coming to fruition. Kombat Taekwondo has rapidly expanded its presence, now active in more than 110 countries, boasting a global web of over 1,400 certified referees and 1,000 affiliated clubs, all achieved in just the past year.
From Modest Roots to Worldwide Reach
Growing up as the child of South Korean immigrants, Park learned the value of persistence and grit early in life. His father established the family’s first martial arts school in 1989, overcoming language barriers and other obstacles along the way. By 10, Sunny was deeply involved in the training, instructing students and handling the school’s day-to-day operations.
Financial struggles forced Park to close the family school and sacrifice his family home. With his father returning to South Korea and his mother juggling several jobs, Park was left to rebuild on shaky ground. He reflects on this period, “When you’ve hit your lowest, there’s only one way left to go.”
His determination paid off. A decade later, in 2004, he revived the family legacy, together with his wife and brother, by founding Kombat Taekwondo USA. The rebrand transformed their local business into a global martial arts hub, now generating over $3 million in annual revenue and providing a springboard for martial artists seeking international acclaim.
Passion Into Achievement
Park’s life blends business oversight and athletic passion. He earned a 5th Dan Kukkiwon black belt, Level 3 Krav Maga certification, and competed on the 2024 USA National Team. Leveraging a background in Business Administration, Park continues to merge his sporting expertise with strategic entrepreneurship.
His passion extends to shaping the lives of his students in an impactful way. Park focuses on instilling discipline, confidence, and resilience through martial arts, believing its actual value lies in personal development. “Martial arts isn’t just about technique,” he says. “It’s about building character and confidence that lasts a lifetime.”
Pioneering the Future of Martial Arts
Park’s ambitions reach beyond current achievements. He aims to open 50 Kombat Taekwondo USA locations nationwide by the time he is 50, while continually expanding his international network. His growth strategy is the same as his lifelong passion: ongoing unification of martial arts entities under his organization.
Major recent events in Argentina, Brazil, and Colombia have raised the bar for global competition, with the organization’s sights set on launching professional tournaments in the U.S. by 2025. Park envisions a future where martial artists become household names and enjoy the spotlight of mainstream sports.
The Foundation of Family and Community
Park credits his professional and personal success to the support of family and friends. He encourages others to value those who stand by them in adversity. “Cherish those who support you through difficulties,” he advises, emphasizing that challenges often open doors to creative solutions and growth. “Even if the path changes, staying in the fight is what makes the difference.”
For updates on Sunny Woo Park’s ongoing work or to learn more about Kombat Taekwondo USA, follow him on his social media pages, linked below.
Facebook – Master Park’s Black Belt America
Facebook – Kombat Taekwondo USA
