The discipline
Taekwondo is a traditional Korean martial art originated during the 1940s and 1950s. It teaches more than physical fighting skills, also focusing on a way of life shaped by discipline. In taekwondo, hands and feet can be used to overcome an opponent, with the trademark of the sport being a precise combination of kicks.
The winner is decided by points, knockout or the athlete showing most commitment to attack during a match.
At the Games
Taekwondo has featured in every edition and remains part of Riyadh 2025, featuring 144 athletes (72 men / 72 women) competing for 12 gold medals from 15 to 17 November 2025 at Malaz Combat Hall.
Entry
World Taekwondo will assign 66 athlete slots per gender, based on the July ranking list, while also applying the universality principle at its discretion. World Taekwondo will provide the LOC with the list of qualified athletes.
A maximum of 12 athletes per NOC may compete and the host nation may also claim up to six quota places per gender.
Athletes must hold a Kukkiwon or National Dan certificate, a valid World Taekwondo Global Athlete License for 2025 and be born in or before 2008.
