A demonstration sport in 1988 and 1992, taekwondo became a full medal event for the 2000 Games in Sydney.
Common as a hobby in various countries around the world, elite-level taekwondo has become much higher profile over the last couple of decades thanks to being added to the Olympic roster.
Taekwondo betting markets are not going to be attracting many bettors for events outside of the Olympics.
Interest increases when the Games begin, though, and fans are bound to be on the lookout for some live betting opportunities.
History
Originating in Korea, taekwondo is a combat sport based on five principles of courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit. The Korea Taekwondo Association is the oldest governing body in the world and was only established in 1959.
This is a relatively modern sport compared to many others on the Olympic Program. It began after Japanese occupation in the 1940s, with martial arts schools called kwans opening in Seoul.
This brought the combination of Korean teaching with knowledge of Japanese martial arts like karate and judo, and Chinese experiences in the same field.
Two schools of thought – traditionalist and revisionist – exist in the world of taekwondo. The Korean government has supported the traditionalist idea, as it keeps taekwondo separate from Japan and enables the sport to have its own, unique cultural background.
Efforts to standardise taekwondo in Korea were made in the 1950s. Taken up by the South Korean military, the popularity of taekwondo continued to rise throughout the 20th century.
Kukkiwon-style taekwondo is now recognised as the competitive form of the sport. Unification of taekwondo techniques and rules was an important part of the process for growing the audience in recent decades.
Taekwondo was first seen at the Olympics as a demonstration event in 1988, and ultimately became a medal event 12 years later in Sydney.
Rules
Every taekwondo match begins with a bow from each player to one another and the referee.
There are three rounds of two minutes each, in every match. There is a one-minute break between each rounds.
Each competitor is aiming to land strikes on the head and torso of the opponent using their hands and feet.
Kicks are counted if they connect with any part of the foot below the ankle bone, while punches must be struck with a straight technique and a clenched fist.
Scoring
Most scoring is determined by the Protector and Scoring Systems in the head and trunk protectors.
Manual scoring remains part of the process, however, with judges adjudicating on specific punching techniques and turning kicks.
Points are scored in the following ways:
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One point for a valid punch to the trunk protector
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Two Points for a valid kick to the trunk protector
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Four points for a valid turning kick to the trunk protector
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Three points for a valid kick to the head
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Five points for a valid turning kick to the head
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One point awarded for every penalty given against the opponent
There is one penalty in taekwondo. This is called gam-jeom. Points are lost for crossing the boundary line with both feet, unsportsmanlike conduct, falling to the ground, or grabbing the opponent. The way kicks are delivered to the trunk can also result in a gam-jeom.
Contestants face a points penalty if they strike the opponent’s face or punch/kick below the waist. Kicks aiming below the waist or using legs to block opponent’s attacks can also lead to a penalty.
A player wins by having the most points after three rounds. Alternatively, they could win by withdrawal or the referee deciding to stop the contest.
Disqualifications, punitive declarations, or point gaps can force a result, too. If tied after three rounds, a golden point round will be played, with the first player to score a point winning the matchup.
Competition Area Size & Dimensions
A taekwondo competition area is 10 by 10 metres at a minimum and up to 12 by 12 metres.
There is an octagonal-shaped contest area at the centre of the competition area. This has a diameter of eight metres. Outside of the octagon is a safety area.
The same format can be used with a square contest area, which depends on the competition. The 2012 Olympics used a square, but the Rio Olympics four years later opted for the octagon.
The competition area will often be on an elevated platform with steps for the two contestants.
Equipment
The taekwondo uniform is called a dobok, which features a belt around the waist.
During training, the amount of padding worn depends on the tradition. The ITF tradition has minimal protection other than the hands and feet. In the Kukkiwon tradition, padding is more extensive across the body.
Most Successful Countries at the Olympics
South Korea top the taekwondo medal table with 22 total medals and 12 gold medals. China (11) and the United States (10) are the only other nations with double-digit medals.
Despite the dominance of South Korea, a total of 10 countries have won multiple golds in taekwondo.
*Credit for the photos in this article belongs to Alamy*
