TAEKWONDO LEGEND DAEHOON LEE JOINS TEAM USA AHEAD OF LA 2028 OLYMPIC GAMES

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TAEKWONDO LEGEND DAEHOON LEE JOINS TEAM USA AHEAD OF LA 2028 OLYMPIC GAMES

One of the most successful athletes in modern taekwondo history is joining USA Taekwondo to work with U.S. athletes toward LA 2028

CHARLOTTE, NC (March 4, 2026) – USA Taekwondo (USATKD) today announces the appointment of taekwondo legend Daehoon Lee as U.S. National Team Coach. Lee, one of the most decorated and successful athletes in the history of the sport, joins the Team USA staff in North Carolina and will work with U.S. athletes as the program builds toward the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

"We are thrilled to welcome Daehoon to Team USA," said Steve McNally, CEO of USA Taekwondo. "Daehoon is one of the greatest competitors our sport has ever seen. He brings world-class technical expertise, Olympic experience, and a deep understanding of what it takes to compete at the highest level. With the 2028 Games on home soil in Los Angeles, having a coach of his caliber working with U.S. athletes and coaches is a game-changer for the program for the LA Olympic Games and beyond."

Lee's competitive achievements place him among the most successful athletes in modern taekwondo history. A two-time Olympic medalist, three-time World Champion, and 12-time Grand Prix winner, Lee dominated international competition throughout his distinguished career representing the Republic of Korea.

Since retiring from competition, Lee has transitioned into coaching, working with elite athletes in South Korea. His appointment marks a significant addition to USATKD's coaching staff as the organization prepares for the LA 2028 Olympic cycle.

"I am deeply honored to join Team USA and work with American athletes toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics," said Lee. "The LA Games represent a special opportunity for the United States, and I'm committed to helping Team USA athletes achieve their best performances on home soil. I look forward to being part of this journey."

Lee will be based at USATKD's training facility at the University of North Carolina, Charlotte, and will arrive in the summer once visa formalities are completed to work alongside the national team coaching staff. His contract runs through 2032, encompassing both the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Olympic cycles.

The appointment strengthens USATKD's commitment to elite-level coaching and athlete development as the organization builds toward the first Olympic Games on U.S. soil to include taekwondo as a medal sport.

For an exclusive interview with Coach Daehoon Lee and USATKD CEO Steve McNally, visit MasTaekwondo at 3:00 PM ET.

VIDEO MESSAGE FROM DAEHOON LEE