It has been reported that Chuck Norris, a legendary martial artist and symbol of American action films, has passed away today.

He reportedly died peacefully at the age of 86 on March 19, 2026, surrounded by family. This news resonates deeply.

Chuck Norris was deployed to Korea in 1959 as a military police officer in the U.S. Air Force, where he began his martial arts journey by learning Tang Soo Do at a dojo.

Tang Soo Do was created in Korea as a way to unify various martial arts under government guidance, and it eventually led to the development of Taekwondo. While Taekwondo inherits some techniques and philosophies from Tang Soo Do, it has been redefined as a sport focused on kicking and internationalization.

In fact, Chuck Norris is intertwined with the history of Taekwondo that we know today. His experience learning martial arts in Korea set him on a lifelong path as a martial artist. In 1972, the Korea Taekwondo Association was established, standardizing forms, dan certificates, and education systems, which laid the foundation for the Taekwondo we recognize now.

Then, in 1973, the World Taekwondo Federation (WT) was founded, marking the beginning of Taekwondo as an international sport. Chuck Norris is recorded as the first Western Grandmaster to receive an 8th dan in Taekwondo, playing a significant role in promoting Taekwondo in the United States. 

In Taekwondo, a Grand Master is not just someone who has trained for a long time; it refers to the highest level of recognition for both martial arts mastery and authority as a leader. Generally, Taekwondo dan certificates range from 1st to 9th dan, with 8th and 9th dan being referred to as Grand Masters.

After returning to the U.S., Chuck Norris continued his training and eventually became the national karate middleweight champion in 1968.

He maintained that position for an impressive six years, solidifying his image as an absolute powerhouse. At that time, his name in the American martial arts community represented more than just an athlete; he was recognized for creating a new trend with a practical-focused style.

During this period, an important connection emerged: Bruce Lee. The two were not just colleagues but influenced each other, resulting in the iconic film "Way of the Dragon."

The final duel scene set in the Roman Colosseum is still considered one of the most famous fight scenes in film history. Ironically, this scene is remembered as one of the few moments where Chuck Norris was defeated on screen.

He then made a significant entry into the film industry, reaching the peak of his career as an action star in the 1980s.

With successful films like "Delta Force" and "Missing in Action," he became the face of the American action hero.

As the 1990s approached, his image expanded once again. The TV series "Walker, Texas Ranger" aired for an impressive eight years, gaining widespread popularity. Through this work, he became not just a movie star but a familiar face in American households.

However, as time went on, something even more interesting happened: the birth of the "Chuck Norris meme."

Exaggerated humor like "Chuck Norris doesn't cry; onions cry" began to spread on the internet, transforming him into a mythic figure beyond a real person. His presence grew even larger as he was consumed as a character that transcended humanity.

His achievements as a martial artist cannot be overlooked. He is recorded as the first Westerner to receive an 8th dan in Taekwondo and played a significant role in promoting Taekwondo in the U.S.

Personally, when I think of the name Chuck Norris, I don't just see a strong person; I first think of "someone who endures to the end." Although times have changed and action styles have evolved, his presence remains unparalleled.

Compared to today's actors, he may seem like a simpler and more straightforward character, but that is also why he leaves a stronger impression.

Today, we mourn the passing of a famous figure who represented an era deeply connected to Korea. May he rest in peace.