Thailand Poomsae Taekwondo Championships Kick Off in Korat

The 2026 GH Bank Poomsae Taekwondo Championships officially opened at Terminal Hall, Terminal 21 Korat, in Nakhon Ratchasima province on October 8, 2026. According to Khaosod Online, the event has attracted significant interest, with approximately 2,000 entries participating in the competition.

Thanatit Raktabut, Secretary-General of the Taekwondo Association of Thailand, noted that this year marks a golden era for the sport in the country, citing recent successes including three world championship titles and two historic medals at the Asian Games. To maintain this momentum, the association has authorized national team athletes to compete in the tournament.

The opening day saw high-level competition, with world champion 'BM' Thanyaluck Chuenruethai securing the national title by defeating Asian Games medalist Navin 'Moo Ping' Pitasoot.

For residents and visitors in the Korat area, this event highlights the growing popularity of taekwondo in Thailand. The tournament serves as a major showcase for the country's top martial arts talent. While the competition is currently underway, further details regarding the full schedule of events and the final medal tally for the remainder of the tournament are expected to be confirmed as the matches progress throughout the week.