Poomae Rules

Competitors are required to perform only the Poomsae (form) designated for their specific rank. Scores are based on:

  • Accuracy: correct movement, correct placement of technique, balance
  • Presentation: Strength, speed, rhythm, expression of energy

Authorized Poomsae are those approved by the World Taekwondo Federation: Taeguek 1-8 Jang and black belt Poomsae: Koryo, Keumgang, Taebaek, etc.

TYPE DIVISION REQUIRED POOMSAE (Form)
Regular Poomsae All Color Belts Taeguek poomsae only (your belt level)
Open Poomsae All Belts Palgae or other form along with weapon
Synchronized Poomsae All Belts Any type of form

Rules:

  • Black belts must demonstrate form that corresponds with rank.
  • Spectators, and parents will not be allowed on the competition floor during Poomsae competition.
  • No shoes, jewelry, or accessories are allowed. Clean uniform and belt required.
  • Open, weapon, and synchronized forms may be performed with or without music.
  • Music and music players must be brought by the competitors themselves. Music and devices will not be provided by tournament. Please bring your own.
  • Gender and ranks may be combined at the discretion of tournament director.

Awards:

  • Medal will be awarded to all participants 11 and under for regular poomsae or 10 and under for open poomsae, weapon, and synchronized form as seen below in the table.
  • For participants 12 and Up for regular poomsae and 11 and over for open poomsae and weapon form:  1st, 2nd, and Two 3rd place winners in each division will be awarded medals.

World Class Poomsae Division: (All Black Belts)

WORLD CLASS POOMSAE DIVISION REQUIRED POOMSAE
1 Dan (Poom) 2 Dan (Poom) 3 Dan (Poom) 4 Dan (Poom) 5 Dan 6 Dan 7 Dan
Under 9 8 Jang or Koryo Keumgang Taebaek Pyongwon Shipjin Jitae Chonkwon
Youth (10-11)          Koryo
Cadet (12-14)
Junior (15-17)
Under 30 (18-30)
Under 40 (31-40)
Under 50 (41-50)
Under 60 (51-60)
Over 61 (61-65)

Awards:
1st, 2nd, and two 3rd place winners in each division will be awarded medals.

Note: Tournament director may modify some rules according to the local condition.