How do you score in para taekwondo?
B · Beginner · The contest · 3 of 4A valid kick to the trunk protector, registered by the PSS, scores two; a turning or spinning kick four; each gam-jeom against the opponent one. Kicks must use the foot below the ankle and hit where the protector covers, not the spine. Judges add the turning-kick bonus by hand; it is void if the PSS did not register the kick.
How it works
- Kick to trunk: 2 points.
- Turning or spinning kick: 4 points.
- Gam-jeom: 1 point to the opponent.
- Foot: below the ankle bone.
- Target: trunk protector, not the spine.
- Punches: allowed, no points.
- Turning bonus: judges, only if the PSS registered.
- Back kick: turning only if head and shoulder rotate.
The glossary has the valid points (para taekwondo), the turning kick (para taekwondo), the permitted techniques (para taekwondo), the corner judges, the gam-jeom and the Protector and Scoring System.
Tricky cases
A back kick without turning the head. How many points?
Two, as an ordinary kick.
A kick lands as part of a prohibited act. Does it count?
No. Points scored by a prohibited act are invalidated.
Does the referee award points?
No. The PSS and the judges do.
With two corner judges, how many must confirm?
Both; with three, at least two.
Why the rule exists
Extra points for turning kicks reward the harder technique. The PSS check stops judges awarding points for kicks that did not land.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinary kick | 2 points | 13 |
| Turning kick | 4 points | 13.3.2 |
| Penalty | 1 point | 15.3 |
From the rule book
World Taekwondo, Para Taekwondo Competition Rules (23 October 2025), articles 12 to 14. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: WT Para Taekwondo Competition Rules.