World Taekwondo
World Taekwondo (WT) is the global governing body for sport Taekwondo, founded in 1973 and recognized by the International Olympic Committee. Known for its fast-paced, dynamic kicking style and electronic scoring system, WT focuses on athletic excellence, technical precision, and global competition. It is rooted in the Kukkiwon curriculum and emphasizes poomsae (forms), Olympic sparring, and physical conditioning. WT schools operate in over 200 countries, making it one of the most widely practiced martial arts systems worldwide. It balances tradition and innovation to shape modern martial athletes and promote Taekwondo as a global sport.
World Taekwondo Essentials
About World Taekwondo
Learn what defines World Taekwondo—a high-performance martial arts system focused on speed, accuracy, and international competition under Olympic rules.
World Taekwondo History
Explore the origins of WT, from its foundation in Seoul to its recognition by the IOC, and the evolution of sport Taekwondo from national discipline to Olympic phenomenon.
Philosophy & Approach
Understand WT’s approach to martial arts as a global sport—emphasizing respect, fair play, and athletic excellence alongside traditional martial values.
Techniques & Style
Dive into WT’s signature style: rapid roundhouse kicks, head-height spinning techniques, explosive footwork, and a focus on scoring and timing in competitive settings.
Traditions & Etiquette
Review the formal etiquette of WT training—bowing rituals, Korean terminology, belt protocol, and behavior that reflects both martial decorum and sport professionalism.
Uniform & Symbols
Discover the WT dobok with V-neck design, federation patches, and competition-specific gear including electronic hogus, headgear, and country-specific uniforms.
Weapons
While WT does not include weapons in its core curriculum, some affiliated dojangs may offer supplemental training for cultural or demonstration purposes.
Ranking System
Explore the Kukkiwon-based promotion system used in WT schools, with clearly defined colored belt levels and internationally certified black belt testing standards.
World Taekwondo Glossary
Familiarize yourself with core WT terminology such as “poomsae,” “kyorugi,” and “kihap,” as well as the names of kicks, stances, and scoring terms used in sport Taekwondo.
Notable Figures
Meet the pioneers and champions of WT—from early leaders like Dr. Un Yong Kim to Olympic athletes who elevated Taekwondo’s global reputation.
Branches & Organizations
Explore national federations, regional unions, and affiliated Kukkiwon-based organizations that work under the WT umbrella to promote and govern global Taekwondo.
Competitive Format
Learn about WT’s structured competition formats—Olympic sparring, recognized and freestyle poomsae, and major international events governed by electronic scoring and strict rulesets.
