Taekwondo
Taekwondo is more than just a martial art—it is a way of life rooted in discipline, respect, and self-control. Originating in Korea, taekwondo combines fast, high kicks with sharp hand techniques, creating a sport that is both beautiful to watch and powerful to practice. Today, it is not only Korea’s national sport but also an official Olympic discipline practiced by millions around the globe.
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How Taekwondo Is Played
In modern taekwondo competitions, two athletes face each other in a ring, wearing protective gear including headgear, chest protectors, and shin guards. The goal is to score points by delivering precise kicks and punches to the opponent’s torso or head.
Points System:
1 point for a valid punch to the chest.
2 points for a valid kick to the chest.
3 points for a valid kick to the head.
Additional points are awarded for spinning or jumping kicks that land successfully.
Match Duration: A standard match has three rounds of two minutes each, with one-minute breaks in between.
Winning: The athlete with the highest score at the end wins. However, a knockout, disqualification, or point gap can also decide the match earlier.
What makes taekwondo unique is the emphasis on speed, agility, and technique rather than brute strength. The sport also stresses respect—athletes bow before and after a match to honor each other and the martial art itself.
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Champion Countries in Taekwondo
Taekwondo has become a truly global sport, with many countries excelling on the Olympic and World Championship stage. Some of the leading taekwondo nations include:
South Korea – The birthplace of taekwondo and the most dominant country in its history, winning the highest number of Olympic and World Championship medals.
Iran – A powerhouse in men’s taekwondo, producing Olympic champions like Hadi Saei and consistently ranking among the top nations.
Turkey – Known for its strong female fighters and success in World Championships.
China – A rising force with Olympic gold medalists and a growing presence in the sport.
United States – Home to legendary athletes like Steven López, one of the most decorated taekwondo champions in history.
Mexico – Famous for producing Olympic medalists such as María Espinoza, who won gold, silver, and bronze across three Olympics.
These countries showcase the international appeal of taekwondo and how it continues to unite athletes across continents.
Source:FISU
Champions of the Sport
Over the years, taekwondo has produced remarkable champions who have left their mark on the global stage:
Hwang Kyung-seon (Korea) – The first woman to win three consecutive Olympic medals in taekwondo.
Lee Dae-hoon (Korea) – Known for his quick footwork and technical skills, with multiple World Championship and Asian Games titles.
Steven López (USA) – A two-time Olympic gold medalist and five-time World Champion.
Hadi Saei (Iran) – One of Iran’s greatest athletes, with two Olympic gold medals and a bronze.
These legends symbolize the strength and artistry of taekwondo, inspiring new generations to take up the sport.
Taekwondo at the 2027 FISU World University Games in Chungcheong
As the home of taekwondo, Korea is the perfect place to celebrate the sport at the 2027 FISU World University Games. The taekwondo competitions will be hosted in Cheongju, one of Chungcheong’s major cities. With state-of-the-art sporting facilities and a rich cultural backdrop, Cheongju will welcome university athletes from across the globe to compete in the land where taekwondo was born.
For many athletes, stepping into the arena in Korea is more than just a competition—it is a cultural journey and a chance to connect with the roots of this martial art. The event will not only showcase thrilling matches but also the philosophy of discipline, honor, and respect that taekwondo embodies.
Source:FISU