The 13th Turkish Open Taekwondo Tournament, organized by the Turkish Taekwondo Federation, will be held in Antalya between March 24-31, 2026, in the following disciplines: Kyorugi (Stars, Juniors, Seniors) (Stars 26-27 March 2026, Juniors 28-29 March 2026, Seniors 30-31 March 2026) Poomsae (All Categories) (March 24, 2026) Para Taekwondo Kyorugi (March 25, 2026) Para Taekwondo Poomsae (March 25, 2026) COMPETITION VENUE Antalya Sports Hall (10,000 Capacity Sports Hall) Address: Antalya Sports Hall, Meltem, 07030 Muratpaşa, Antalya / Turkey ***All technical and administrative aspects of the tournament are detailed in the official regulations prepared for each sport.*** Kyorgi Regulations Poomsae Regulations Para Kyorgi Regulations Para Poomsae Regulations Important Note *All clubs, coaches, and athletes are strongly advised to carefully review the regulations for their respective sport before participating in the tournament. *The athlete who takes first place in the 2026 Turkish Senior Taekwondo Championship and the athlete who takes first place in the Senior National Team Selection Trials in the senior category will participate in the tournament on behalf of the National Team. *Two athletes from among those participating in the World Junior Taekwondo Championship Selection Trials to be held on March 4, 2026, in the youth category, will represent the National Team at the said tournament. *The top two athletes in the 2026 Stars Championships will represent the national team at the tournament. *The top two finishers (ages 16 and over) at the 2026 Turkish Para Taekwondo (Kyorugi & Poomsae) Championship will compete in the tournament representing the national team. (In accordance with WT and ETU rules, only athletes aged 16 and over, which is the age limit applied in international competitions, will be able to compete in the tournament.) *In the 2026 Turkish Taekwondo Poomsae Championship, the athletes who take first place (excluding juniors) will participate in the tournament representing our national team. *The accommodation costs for our athletes representing the national team will be covered by our federation for 2 nights, and for our coaches for 3 nights. *All athletes who will participate in the tournamentCurrent international (year 2026) WT Licenseon their own responsibilityThe registration of athletes who will compete on behalf of the national team for the tournament will be handled by our Federation. Click here for the competition registration page. This is respectfully announced to the public. First release date: February 25, 2026  

The city of Lommel will once again become the epicenter of international taekwondo on March 21 and 22, 2026, with the celebration of the prestigious Belgian Taekwondo Open , organized by Taekwondo Vlaanderen, a championship that for more than five decades has consolidated this event under an unwavering concept of sporting and organizational excellence. Belgian open 2025 With over 50 years of history, the Belgian Open is more than just a competition; it's a must-attend event on the international calendar. Generations of athletes have graced its mats, many of whom have gone on to become European, World, and Olympic champions. Its continuity, technical rigor, and high level of competition have made this event a benchmark of quality within the international circuit. Each edition reaffirms Taekwondo Vlaanderen 's commitment to the professionalization of the sport, respect for the values ​​of taekwondo, and the hospitality that characterizes Belgium as a sporting destination. National teams, elite clubs, and promising young athletes from across the continent will once again gather in Lommel to test their skills in a highly competitive environment. On behalf of Taekwondo Vlaanderen, its president, Grand Master Moustapha Akkouh, expressed his deep gratitude to the global taekwondo community for its continued trust and participation: "It is an honor for us to welcome the international taekwondo family back to Belgium once again. " For over 50 years, we have worked passionately to deliver an event of excellence, and we renew that commitment every year. We sincerely thank all the athletes, coaches, referees, and federations for their visit this coming March.” Grand Master Akkouh also wished to highlight and express his gratitude for the repeated visits of World Taekwondo President Dr. Chungwon Choue, who has supported the event on several occasions, strengthening institutional ties and backing the continued growth of taekwondo in Belgium. “ He will always be welcome.” REGISTER https://worldtkd.simplycompete.com/eventDetails/11f0eee4-b227-4eda-9f64-027be1645a55/1 https://mundotaekwondo.com/info-belgian-open-2025-here/

  KPNP Announces Official Sponsorship of Thai Taekwondo Star Banlung Tubtimdang 3 September 2025 - KPNP, a global leader in taekwondo technology and performance gear, is proud to announce its official sponsorship of rising Thai taekwondo star Banlung Tubtimdang - one of the sport's most exciting young prospects on the international stage. At just Banlung has already made headlines, recently taking gold at the Grand Prix Challenger in Korea. With a growing list of achievements and a relentless commitment to excellence, he's fast becoming a key figure in Thailand's national team and a name to watch on the world stage. Talent. Drive. Precision. That's what caught the eye of KPNP. "Sponsoring Banlung reflects our commitment to supporting emerging talent and promoting taekwondo worldwide," said Mr In-Su Lee, spokesperson for KPNP. "We're proud to be part of his journey and to equip him with the very best in cutting-edge performance tech." As part of this exciting partnership, Banlung will compete using KPNP's full range of official gear - including electronic protectors, sensors, high-performance doboks and more — all engineered to meet the highest standards of quality and precision. Banlung shared his excitement: "It's an honour to join the KPNP family. Their gear gives me the extra edge and confidence to push harder at every competition." This sponsorship marks a new chapter for both Banlung and KPNP, strengthening the brand's presence in Southeast Asia and reinforcing its mission to empower athletes across the globe.   news source: mundotaekwondo instagram

Astana, Kazakhstan – August 16, 2025 – A historic moment for taekwondo took place at the Kazakhstan Open 2025, where KPNP officially unveiled its next-generation innovative E-Gloves to an international audience. THIS EVENT MARKS A SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE IN THE EVOLUTION OF ELECTRONIC SCORING AND ATHLETE MONITORING WITHIN THE SPORT. For the first time, the new E-Gloves were used in a live competitive environment, seamlessly integrating with the championship’s electronic scoring system. Their debut was met with enthusiasm from athletes, coaches, and international federations. The E-Gloves are designed to detect valid strikes with greater accuracy and speed, providing referees with increased reliability and ensuring fairer and more transparent results in competition. Their lightweight structure and ergonomic design also ensure that athletes’ performance is not compromised. “This is much more than the launch of a product; it is the beginning of a new era for taekwondo,” stated a KPNP spokesperson. “OUR MISSION HAS ALWAYS BEEN TO INNOVATE WITH PURPOSE, AND THE E-GLOVES ARE PROOF OF THAT VISION. WE ARE PROUD TO PRESENT THEM HERE AT THE KAZAKHSTAN OPEN 2025.” With this successful presentation, KPNP reaffirms its leadership in taekwondo technology, setting new standards for how the sport is practiced and judged at the highest levels. KAZAKHSTAN OPEN REPORT source: https://mundotaekwondo.com/  

China won first gold of Chuncheon 2025 World Taekwondo World Cup Team Championships CHUNCHEON, Korea (July 7, 2025) – China’s men’s team earned its first gold medal at the World Taekwondo Team Championships in Chuncheon, Korea. Their victory came after defeating host nation South Korea in the final match. In the bronze medal contest on opening day, Kazakhstan beat Morocco to reach the podium. Seven teams competed in the men’s team division, including Denmark, France, and India. Matches at the World Cup are conducted under a best-of-three team format. The competition continues tomorrow with the women’s team event, along with the Opening Ceremony at the Song-Am Sports City Air Dome in Chuncheon. source: https://mundotaekwondo.com/

Chuncheon, South Korea – July 7, 2025 – The city of Chuncheon is set to become the global epicenter of taekwondo by hosting the 2025 World Cup Taekwondo Team Championships, one of the most prestigious events on the international calendar organized by World Taekwondo (WT). This championship brings together the best national teams and mixed squads in a dynamic team format where collective spirit, tactical prowess, and technical excellence take center stage. Held at the Chuncheon Gangwon Sports Center, the tournament will welcome continental delegations, positioning Chuncheon as a key venue in the global development of taekwondo. The KPNP electronic system will be used. Hosting the championship in Chuncheon, a city with a deep martial arts tradition in Korea, adds symbolic value. In addition to the competition, spectators will enjoy cultural showcases, public activities, and breaking championships, reinforcing the bond between taekwondo, its community, and its roots. source: https://mundotaekwondo.com/

Africa Looks to the Future: Nigeria to Host the 2025 African Cadet, Junior & Team Taekwondo Championships Abuja, Nigeria – 22 to 24 August 2025 The heart of African taekwondo is set to beat stronger than ever this August as Nigeria hosts the 2025 African Cadet, Junior & Team Taekwondo Championships—an event that promises to mark a turning point for the next generation of athletes across the continent. Scheduled from 22 to 24 August 2025, the competition will take place at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium in Abuja, a venue ready to provide world-class facilities and an unforgettable cultural experience. This long-awaited return of a major continental championship is more than just another tournament—it is a symbol of revival and forward momentum for youth taekwondo in Africa. It serves as a high-performance platform where cadet and junior athletes will not only gain invaluable experience but also earn ranking points on their path to the Angola 2025 African Youth Games and the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG). Abuja: A Continental Stage for Rising Stars Nigeria’s selection as host reflects both vision and ambition. With energy and commitment, the country is preparing to welcome delegations from across Africa with warmth and pride. Organisers are ensuring that every detail—from logistics and accommodation to competition venues and hospitality—is managed to the highest standard. A Gateway to High-Level Competition In addition to individual categories, the event will feature mixed-gender junior team competitions, promoting both teamwork and gender inclusivity. This format strengthens the spirit of collaboration among nations, and reflects the inclusive values of taekwondo. For many of these young athletes, this championship will be their first exposure to elite-level international competition. It is here that they will learn to manage pressure, represent their countries with honour, and develop the mental discipline essential for Olympic-style events. While Dakar 2026 may be the ultimate goal, the journey begins in Abuja. This championship will act as a testing ground for emerging talent, and many of the names that shine here are expected to become future stars on the global stage. More Than Sport: A Celebration of Unity and Culture This event goes beyond medals and titles. Nigeria is determined to make it a celebration of African youth, unity, and diversity. Cultural showcases, community engagement and a spirit of togetherness will transform Abuja into a vibrant hub of sport and cultural exchange. Registration Open Until 31 July Registration is now open, with a final deadline of 31 July 2025. National federations are strongly encouraged to confirm their entries early to secure participation and ensure the presence of their best young athletes. Reigniting the Flame of Youth Taekwondo The 2025 African Cadet, Junior & Team Championships will be far more than a competition—it will be a collective statement of Africa’s commitment to nurturing its young talent. It also represents the first significant milestone in a new Olympic cycle that is already beginning to inspire passion across the continent. Nigeria is ready. So is Africa. The future of African taekwondo begins now—in Abuja. Carlos Hernández source: https://mundotaekwondo.com/

Taekwondo at Its Finest in South Korea During the month of July 2025, the city of Chuncheon and the high-performance center Muju Taekwondowon became the heart of the taekwondo world, hosting some of the most innovative and spectacular events organized by World Taekwondo (WT). From intense team battles to creative demonstrations and breaking competitions, the international circuit showcased a vibrant display of strength, technique, artistry, and spectacle. World Cup Team Championships: Strategy and Showmanship in Chuncheon From July 7 to 9, Chuncheon hosted a new edition of the World Taekwondo Team Championships, better known as the World Cup Team Championships. This format, which combines collective strategy and individual tactics, attracted top men’s, women’s, and mixed teams from around the globe. Teams from South Korea, China, and Uzbekistan stood out in the men’s, women’s, and mixed categories, demonstrating advanced technique and great physical strength among their athletes. “This kind of tournament strengthens team spirit and shows that taekwondo is more than just an individual sport,” commented one of the Chinese team coaches. Breaking and Demonstrations: Martial Art in Its Purest Form Right after, from July 10 to 13, Chuncheon was once again filled with energy for the World Taekwondo Demonstration & Breaking Championships. The event brought together breaking specialists and prestigious demonstration teams from Korea and other countries, who performed spectacular choreographies blending acrobatics, synchronization, and traditional technique. From precise multi-board spinning kick breaks to theatrical self-defense presentations, the tournament confirmed taekwondo’s versatility as both a martial art and a cultural vehicle. “We’re not just breaking boards—we’re breaking prejudices. This too is taekwondo,” said a member of the demo team after receiving a standing ovation from the local crowd. Diamond Game: Elite Performance Shines in Muju   Meanwhile, Muju Taekwondowon hosted the long-awaited Diamond Game from July 11 to 13, part of the “Game Diamante” series by World Taekwondo—an elite G4-ranked competition gathering top kyorugi athletes. Stars like Ulugbek Rashitov (UZB) and Firas Katousi (TUN) faced off in high-level tactical matches, competing for crucial Olympic ranking points. The event featured a glamorous format with mixed matches and elevated the competition experience for both athletes and spectators. Taekwondo Goes Viral: Global Media Impact   World Taekwondo’s digital strategy—through live broadcasts, daily recaps, and interactive social media posts—has succeeded in reaching new audiences. Official platforms have generated millions of views, especially from breaking highlights and team fights. Moreover, international media such as Korea.net and specialized sports channels have provided extensive coverage, reinforcing taekwondo’s image as a modern, visual, and thrilling sport. Beyond the Mat: Wellness, Inclusion, and Culture The events also included spaces for reflecting on athlete mental health, mixed-category inclusion, and taekwondo as an educational and social tool. These efforts are part of WT’s value-based program leading up to the next Olympic cycle toward Los Angeles 2028. Looking Ahead   With an eye on the upcoming World Championships in Wuxi (China, October 2025) and Olympic qualification for LA 2028, taekwondo continues to evolve—blending tradition with innovation. source: https://mundotaekwondo.com/

Korean Dominance on the University Stage: The Best of Taekwondo Kyorugi at Rhine-Ruhr 2025 (Summary) Duisburg, Germany. In the midst of a vibrant multicultural atmosphere, the FISU World University Games Rhine-Ruhr 2025 left their mark on the tatami, where taekwondo—specifically its sparring discipline, Kyorugi—showed why it remains one of the most thrilling sports on the international stage. Elite athletes, all university students, put their grit, technique, and martial spirit to the test in matches that combined skill and passion in equal measure. As tradition dictates, South Korea, the birthplace of taekwondo, once again set the standard in this ancient martial art during the early days of competition. South Korea: Signature Supremacy With a total of 8 medals (4 gold, 3 silver, and 1 bronze), the South Korean team dominated the overall Kyorugi standings. Their precise technique, combat strategy, and bench depth allowed them to surpass emerging powerhouses in the university circuit with confidence. One of the tournament’s highlights was the Korean athlete’s victory in the men’s -68 kg category, where he came from behind in the final round with a spinning head kick that drew applause throughout the arena. China and Ukraine: Pressure from the East China secured 7 medals (2 gold, 2 silver, and 3 bronze), solidifying its role as South Korea’s main contender. The country's combat school has matured significantly over the past few decades, producing explosive and disciplined athletes. Ukraine surprised the crowd with a strong performance, earning 4 medals (1 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze). Notably, in the women’s -62 kg category, a Ukrainian athlete climbed to the top of the podium with a combative and resilient style, reflecting Eastern Europe’s growing prowess in the sport. Kazakhstan, Canada, and Other Contenders Kazakhstan reaffirmed its position as a stronghold for university taekwondo with 5 medals (1 gold, 1 silver, and 3 bronze), while Canada delivered its best performance in years, taking home 1 gold, 1 silver, and 1 bronze—a testament to the sport’s growth in North America. Uzbekistan, Taiwan, and Thailand also claimed gold medals, proving that university-level taekwondo has become a truly global discipline. Spain, Germany, and other European countries won significant medals, though they didn’t reach the top of the podium—setting the stage for a new challenge in the next university cycle. Medal Table – Taekwondo Kyorugi (Sparring) Country Gold Silver Bronze Total South Korea 4 3 1 8 China 2 2 3 7 Ukraine 1 2 1 4 Kazakhstan 1 1 3 5 Canada 1 1 1 3 Uzbekistan 1 – 1 2 Taiwan 1 – 1 2 Thailand 1 – – 1 Spain – 1 1 2 Germany – 1 – 1 Other countries¹ – – 1 1 Total 12 12 24   Jesús Ramal: A Successful Medal Maker A Global Vision of Sports Training Since taking the helm of HANKUK, based in San Sebastián de los Reyes (Madrid), Jesús Ramal has transformed it into a true temple of international taekwondo. He’s become a global figure, invited to give clinics on every continent and serve as a training base for world and Olympic athletes. Adopting a holistic approach, he combines technical rigor with a focus on mental health. For him, the psychological aspect is key because “everything is governed by the brain.” Since Adriana Cerezo won silver at Tokyo 2021, and building on the work he’d been doing since the 1980s—along with guiding Suvi Mikkonen in her Olympic appearances—his method exploded in recognition, with results that continue to impress. source: https://mundotaekwondo.com/

Swiss Taekwondo Open 2025 (G1) – Official Announcement – MundoTaekwondo.com is honoured and excited to promote and provide full media coverage for the prestigious Swiss Open 2025!. This elite G1 World Ranking event will take place from 6th to 7th September 2025 at the renowned Athletik Zentrum, St. Gallen. Organised by Peer Steinkellner and his amazing OC, with the full support of the Swiss Taekwondo Federation, and sanctioned by both World Taekwondo (WT) and the European Taekwondo Union (ETU). Official Outline Competition Categories & Capacity: Cadets – 200 athletes Juniors – 200 athletes  Seniors – 400 athletes Registration via: https://www.worldtkd.simplycompete.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR5Zrh-n-vb5UzoV395JyhVH1aKvu5D0WPjotOML7PPVRkfx1emuo0CP-6LTVg_aem_04CoSSvF7kQjIo286Cn3ww source: https://mundotaekwondo.com/