However, Cho Chi-hoon' s importance in Baduk history is not due solely to his most obvious achievements. He is equally, if not more important as the embodiment of tenacious ambition and fighting spirit. Even in a snapshot, Cho Chi-hoon, fresh from competition, radiates the aura of a soldier just come a terrible battle. His shirt unbuttoned, his eyes and cheeks red, and his hair ruffed up like a mane, the photo is a portrait of a Baduk lion.

After spending eight hours finding the best move to play, Cho Chi-hoon will struggle during the one last minute of the match. Regardless of whether he has won or lost, he will stay up all night reviewing the match. On losing a game he should have won, even at the age of forty Cho Chi-hoon would suffer to the point of weeping. In his childhood he seriously considered suicide when he did not achieve professional status at the age of ten. This is the depth of Cho Chi-hoon's passion for Baduk. Maybe he was born with it.
What is Baduk? Is it doctrine, art, just a hobby, mere entertainment? There have been many discussions arguing over the essence of Baduk and the controversy goes on. But Cho Chi-hoon has a clear answer. "To me," he says "Baduk is life and death."
Cho Chi-hoon is certainly the King of Baduk in Japan. The task left to him now is to conquer the world. So far, he has not achieved magnificent results in international competitions. We hope for your success and wish you all the best in new century, Chi-hoon!

- by Bak Young-chul, Baduk critic