Austria’s Complicated Relationship with North Korea’s Taekwondo Federation

The International Taekwon-Do Federation, led by Ri Yong Son, faces scrutiny from Austrian authorities over potential violations of UN sanctions related to North Korea. Despite a court ruling in favor of Ri, concerns remain about his financial ties and the federation’s legitimacy. Austria’s intelligence services acknowledge the difficulty in investigating North Korean activities, reflecting a complex history of relations between the two nations.

The International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF), based on the outskirts of Vienna and led by North Korean Ri Yong Son, claims to have over 100,000 members across at least 100 countries. However, Austrian authorities have been attempting to revoke Ri’s work permit since March 2020 due to suspicions of his involvement in violating United Nations sanctions through foreign currency dealings with Pyongyang.

Despite these accusations, Ri’s legal team produced evidence suggesting he earns a modest monthly salary of 5,256 euros ($5,702), leading judges to dismiss claims of his financial misconduct. An ITF official stated in an interview that the organization has no engagement with North Korea’s government, focusing solely on martial arts competitions and certification for instructors.

Dissident Jihyun Park, an outspoken critic of the North Korean regime, condemned Ri, asserting that he and his family are agents aiding the regime financially. Austria’s reluctance to issue visas to additional North Korean officials reflects ongoing concerns about Ri’s activities in Vienna.

The ITF, founded in 1966 by South Korean defect Choi Hong-Hi, is not recognized by the International Olympic Committee, which acknowledges the South Korean organization World Taekwondo instead. With North Korea enhancing military ties with Russia, experts like Park highlight the urgency for Austria to take action against the ITF’s presence.

Austria considers North Korea a significant subject of intelligence interest, though experts note that challenges such as limited resources, personnel, and language barriers hamper effective investigation. Historically, North Korea has had influential ties in Austria, with former diplomats and affiliates having engaged in arms dealing and other covert dealings in the country until recent years.

The presence of Ri Yong Son and the International Taekwon-Do Federation in Austria poses diplomatic challenges amidst concerns of potential violations of United Nations sanctions. While the ITF claims to operate independently, influential dissidents assert that it may play a role in financial support for the North Korean regime. Austria’s intelligence capabilities are under scrutiny as the country grapples with the complex dynamics of international relations involving North Korea.

Original Source: www.wyomingnewsnow.tv