Article · Competition
Sparring and protective equipment
How Olympic-style Taekwondo sparring is scored, the protective gear worn in competition, and how ITF-style rules differ.
Sparring is called kyorugi. The rules below are those of Olympic-style competition under World Taekwondo. Scoring values have changed over time, so check the current World Taekwondo competition rules before relying on a number.
Format #
A match lasts three rounds of two minutes each, with a one-minute break between rounds. The two fighters compete in the same weight category.[1]
Scoring #
Valid points are mainly scored by an electronic system installed in the head and trunk protectors. Punches and the extra points for turning kicks are awarded by judges using manual devices.[1] Each penalty (gam-jeom) given against an opponent adds one point.[1]
| Technique | Points |
|---|---|
| Punch to the trunk | 1 |
| Kick to the trunk | 2 |
| Turning kick to the trunk | 4 |
| Kick to the head | 3 |
| Turning kick to the head | 5 |
Hits to the trunk protector (hogu) and head protector score; kicks to the head score more than kicks to the body.[2]
Protective equipment #
Competitors wear a dobok or a white competition uniform with:[1]
- a trunk protector (hogu)
- a head protector
- a groin guard for male athletes
- forearm and shin guards
- gloves
- sensing socks
- a mouth guard
Other rule sets #
ITF-style sparring and the rules of independent schools differ from World Taekwondo rules in scoring and equipment, and vary between organizations. See Major Taekwondo organizations compared and The Taekwondo uniform.
Sources
- Olympics.com, "Know your sport: Taekwondo rules, scoring and equipment" olympics.com
- Wikipedia, "World Taekwondo" en.wikipedia.org
Online sources last checked 5 November 2026.