Korean martial art and combat sport particularly known for kicks, footwork and technical forms.
Taekwondo is a Korean martial art that has also become an international combat sport. It places particular emphasis on kicks, footwork, distance, speed and precision. Depending on the school, training may include sparring, technical forms, conditioning and self-defence.
Modern taekwondo took shape in Korea during the 20th century. World Taekwondo was founded in 1973. The discipline appeared as a demonstration sport at the Seoul 1988 and Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games and became an official Olympic sport at Sydney 2000.
Training emphasises body control, mobility, precision and distance management. Priorities differ between schools and training settings.
Taekwondo may appeal to people seeking a dynamic practice with a strong emphasis on kicking, either recreationally or in competition.
World Taekwondo (WT)
