Today in Tae Kwon Do there are two world bodies, the International Tae Kwon Do Federation and the World Tae Kwon Do Federation. Tae Kwon Do was founded in 1955 by the Korean Grand Master General Choi Hong Hi (9th Dan). Since then many changes have been implemented to develop Tae Kwon Do into both a formidable form of self defence and Martial Art. The early sixties saw an influx of Korean Tae Kwon Do Masters into the USA and subsequently world-wide. These Masters were to shape and influence Students of many nations with their own training and experience. Tae Kwon Do was introduced into the UK in 1967 by Grand Master Rhee Ki Ha (9th Dan). Today many groups operate their own organisation as the popularity of Tae Kwon Do increases. Based on the ITF system, the GTI was founded in March 1993. The GTI are striving to raise the standard and proficiency of Tae Kwon Do and also increase public awareness. Today there are over 4,000 Students practising GTI Tae Kwon Do in the UK and the Republic of Ireland. The GTI is run by a committee of black belts, who have been elected by the instructors from their respective geographical areas to represent their interests. The business of the Association is conducted in a democratic fashion and is governed by the rules of the GTI's constitution.