THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TRADITIONAL, KUKKIWON AND WORLD TAEKWONDO (WT) TRAINING EMPHASIS

The differences between traditional, Kukkiwon, and World Taekwondo (WT) training lie in their emphasis, approach, and organizational affiliations. Here's a breakdown of each:

1. Traditional Taekwondo Training:

   - Emphasis: Traditional Taekwondo places a strong emphasis on the martial art's historical roots, cultural significance, and philosophical principles. It often focuses on self-defense techniques, forms (Poomsae), and character development.

   - Approach: Traditional Taekwondo training typically involves a holistic approach that incorporates physical conditioning, technique drills, forms practice, and philosophical teachings. It may involve the use of traditional training methods and etiquette.

   - Organizational Affiliations: Traditional Taekwondo schools may be affiliated with various lineage-based organizations or federations that prioritize preserving and promoting the traditional aspects of the martial art.

2. Kukkiwon Taekwondo Training:

   - Emphasis: Kukkiwon Taekwondo, also known as Olympic-style Taekwondo, places a strong emphasis on sport competition and standardized techniques. It follows the rules and regulations established by the Kukkiwon (World Taekwondo Headquarters) and the World Taekwondo (WT).

   - Approach: Kukkiwon Taekwondo training focuses on developing competitive sparring skills, scoring techniques, and athleticism. It often involves rigorous physical training, sparring drills, and practice of prescribed forms (Taegeuk and Black Belt forms).

   - Organizational Affiliations: Kukkiwon Taekwondo is closely associated with the Kukkiwon, which serves as the official governing body for Taekwondo promotion and certification worldwide. Schools and practitioners may be certified by the Kukkiwon and affiliated with national or international Taekwondo federations recognized by the Kukkiwon and World Taekwondo.

3. World Taekwondo (WT) Training:

   - Emphasis: World Taekwondo (formerly known as the World Taekwondo Federation or WTF) focuses primarily on international sport competition, including Olympic-style sparring and Poomsae competitions. It also promotes the values of Taekwondo as a global sport for all.

   - Approach: WT training emphasizes the development of high-level sparring skills, strategy, and conditioning for elite-level competition. It includes intensive training in Olympic-style sparring techniques, tactics, and rules, as well as Poomsae training for competitive and demonstration purposes.

   - Organizational Affiliations: WT-affiliated schools and practitioners adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by World Taekwondo. They may participate in WT-sanctioned competitions, events, and programs and are governed by national Taekwondo federations recognized by World Taekwondo.

In summary, traditional Taekwondo focuses on preserving the martial art's heritage and philosophy, while Kukkiwon and World Taekwondo training place greater emphasis on sport competition and standardized techniques, with Kukkiwon focusing on technical standards and certification, and World Taekwondo focusing on international sport governance and competition.

Compiled Authored by:

Gm Michael Kavita

President: Kenya Taekwondo Jidokwan Federation