Mapua's Fiel Reyes makes golden international debut in World Taekwondo Expo

By Edwin Rollon

Filipino taekwondo jin Fiel Reyes made a dream international debut, capturing two medals, including gold, at the recently concluded 19th World Taekwondo Cultural Expo in Muju, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea.

The 21-year-old Mapua University-Makati student announced her arrival on the world stage in emphatic fashion, topping the poomsae event before adding a runner-up finish in kyorugi (sparring) during the prestigious tournament held from July 16 to 21.

For Reyes, competing abroad for the first time became more than just an international exposure—it was a breakthrough performance that highlighted her readiness to excel against world-class opponents.

Already an accomplished poomsae athlete, Reyes stepped outside her comfort zone by entering the sparring competition, where she exceeded expectations with a silver-medal finish. Her willingness to embrace a new challenge reflected her discipline, perseverance, and determination to improve continuously.

The World Taekwondo Culture Expo is regarded as South Korea's premier international taekwondo festival, attracting more than 4,000 athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts from around the globe. The annual event features competitions in poomsae and kyorugi while promoting Korean culture, tourism, and the core values of taekwondo.

Beyond the competition, participants experienced cultural performances, industry exhibitions, educational seminars, demonstrations by the Korean National Taekwondo Demonstration Team, and cultural tours, making the expo a celebration of both sport and Korean heritage.

Now in its 19th edition, the World Taekwondo Cultural Expo has become one of the world's premier gatherings for taekwondo practitioners, providing athletes with an opportunity to compete, exchange knowledge, and experience the birthplace of the martial art.

"Congratulations, Fiel! You have made your family and the Philippines proud. Mabuhay ka, Fiel! May your journey continue to inspire young athletes to dream bigger, work harder, and never be afraid to take on new challenges," said World Olympics Taekwondo Foundation Philippines Chairman Isagani Domingo and Vice Chairperson Elisabella Domingo.