So’s Taekwondo Celebrates 50 Years of Building Confidence, Character, and Community with Free Anniversary Celebration

Hanover, PA – A Hanover institution that has spent five decades empowering children, teens, and adults through martial arts is inviting the community to celebrate a remarkable milestone. So’s Taekwondo will celebrate its 50th Anniversary with a free, family-friendly event on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 312 Carlisle Street, Hanover, PA 17331.

The celebration is free and open to the public and will feature food trucks, a bounce house, games, prizes, and activities for all ages. Guests who attend will also have the opportunity to enter for a chance to win a Nintendo Switch 2.

Community members are encouraged to RSVP through the event’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1004568842364191.

Founded in 1976, So’s Taekwondo has become one of Hanover’s longest-standing family-owned businesses. Today, third-generation owner Derek So continues the mission his grandparents began nearly 50 years ago after recognizing the need to help children develop confidence and self-esteem.

“The first word that comes to mind is gratitude,” said Derek So. “My family opened the business in the ’70s, so I’m a third-generation business owner. I’m just grateful to have watched the business grow and to have been a part of it.”

Derek shared that his grandparents’ vision remains the foundation of the school today.

“My grandparents started this business after observing kids with low confidence and self-esteem back in South Korea,” he said. “When they moved here, they observed the same thing. When they opened So’s, they hoped it would be a place where children could learn and grow.”

While the school has celebrated countless tournament victories and black belt promotions over the years, Derek says the greatest accomplishment has always been the personal growth of each student.

“I’ve been asked this a lot, and I honestly think it’s observing each child’s success,” he said. “Seeing the children gain a sense of confidence through what we do has always been the best part of the job.”

Reflecting on what he would tell his younger self, Derek’s answer was simple.

“I would say to keep doing what my grandparents started, to keep helping children and providing a space where they can learn and grow.”

He also emphasized the important role families play in a child’s development.

“It’s important for parents to be parents, not friends,” Derek added. “Parents need to put children in spaces where they can grow on their own terms and find a sense of self.”

Today, So’s Taekwondo remains a trusted destination for Hanover families, offering martial arts instruction, after-school programs, and summer camps that focus on physical fitness, mental wellness, discipline, respect, and confidence. The school also provides adult programs designed to improve both physical health and overall well-being.

In recognition of its commitment to the community, So’s Taekwondo was named the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Small Business of the Year, honoring its dedication to developing strong, confident individuals and making a lasting impact throughout the Hanover area.

As the school celebrates 50 years in business, the anniversary event offers an opportunity for former students, current families, and community members to come together and recognize the legacy of a business that has shaped generations of local residents.

Event Details
So’s Taekwondo 50th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, August 1, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
312 Carlisle Street
Hanover, PA 17331

The event is free and open to the public and includes food trucks, a bounce house, games, prizes, and a chance to win a Nintendo Switch 2.

For more information or to schedule a trial class, visit sotkd.us or call (717) 633-6800.

About Main Street Hanover

The mission of Main Street Hanover is to expand the economic capacity of downtown Hanover, thus improving the business environment, enhancing the quality of place, and increasing community synergy.

Contact: Moriah Tyler, Executive Director at Main Street Hanover
Email: Mainstreethanover@gmail.com
Phone: (717) 637-6130 Ext. 101 

Main Street Hanover is a 501c3 non-profit & proceeds benefit the revitalization of Downtown Hanover