Taekwondo at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

Wednesday, August 7 to Saturday, August 10, 2024

Taekwondo, a Korean martial art meaning “the way of feet and fists”, dates back to the era of the Three Kingdoms (50 BC). Derived from Taekkyon, this martial art evolved over the centuries to become Korea's first official martial art in the early 20th century. In 1973, the International Taekwondo Federation (WTF) was created, marking the holding of the first World Championships in Seoul.

Taekwondo is characterized by the use of hands and feet to deliver blows without being hit. Fights take place on an octagonal court in three two-minute rounds. Points are awarded according to the technicality of the blows: a kick to the head earns more than a blow to the torso, and spinning techniques earn extra points. Penalties are given for various faults.

Olympic history

Taekwondo made its Olympic debut as a demonstration sport at the Seoul Games in 1988, then in Barcelona in 1992. It became an official sport at the Sydney Games in 2000. Although Korea initially dominated, Olympic taekwondo is now marked by a wide diversity of medal-winning nations. In London 2012, athletes from eight different nations won gold medals. Countries such as Vietnam, Afghanistan, Gabon, Niger and Jordan won their first Olympic medals thanks to taekwondo.

Competition dates and venue
The taekwondo competitions take place from August 7 to 10, 2024 at the Grand Palais, located in the heart of Paris. The venue is close to famous Parisian landmarks such as the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre museum. Please note that the Pont Alexandre III will be inaccessible on August 7, 8 and 9 until 12:30 p.m., requiring a detour via the Pont de la Concorde.

Stay at Hôtel Blake Best Western Paris Gare Saint-Lazare

For an unforgettable Paris 2024 Olympic Games experience, book your stay at the Hôtel Best Western Paris Gare Saint Lazare. This hotel offers exceptional comfort and easy access to the competition venues, allowing you to make the most of every moment of the Games. Book now to experience the magic of the Olympic Games in the heart of Paris!