Identifying and Analyzing the Underlying Factors behind the Development of Taekwondo in Iran

The aim of the present study was to identify and analyze the contexts for the development of taekwondo in Iran. From a philosophical perspective, the study is interpretive, and its approach is inductive; in terms of purpose, it is developmental, conducted qualitatively using the thematic analysis method. The participants included managers, athletes, coaches, and veterans of taekwondo in the country, and they were selected using purposive sampling. Participants were chosen based on criteria such as having managerial, technical, and specialized experience, as well as knowledge of the history and evolution of taekwondo in Iran, and interviews continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews, and theoretical saturation was obtained after conducting 19 interviews. For data analysis, open, axial, and selective coding methods were used, and ultimately the research model was developed. After data analysis, 954 initial codes were obtained, which, after reviewing for overlaps, eventually resulted in 79 themes and 16 sub-themes. These themes were ultimately categorized into five overarching themes including: empowerment of human capital (coaches, athletes, and managers), modern education and effective communication, social and functional adaptation, the nature and technical growth of taekwondo, and improvement of infrastructural and financial resources. Based on this, the network of themes for the contexts of taekwondo development in Iran was formulated. This network, along with its various themes, encompasses the experiences and a practical model of taekwondo development as a successful discipline in Iran and the world, and can be utilized by federations and managers in other similar disciplines for policymaking and undertaking actions related to development.