Poomsae Seeding: Why 100% Strengthens Competition

Seeding allocates athletes across the draw according to their position in the World Ranking. Its purpose is to recognize previous results and prevent top-ranked competitors from face each other in the early rounds.

Article 8 of the WT Poomsae Ranking Bylaw, in force since March 25, 2026, requires a minimum of 25% seeding at World Taekwondo-promoted and recognized events.

This percentage represents a regulatory minimum, not a limit. Organizers may seed 100% of the athletes who hold a position in the World Ranking.

When Is 100% Seeding Mandatory?

World Taekwondo requires 100% seeding of ranked athletes at:

World Taekwondo Championships.
Biennial Continental Championships.

At other events, 25% is the mandatory minimum, although the regulations allow full seeding.

A 100% seeding policy does not mean that every registered competitor must hold a ranking. Ranked athletes receive positions according to their current standing, while unranked participants enter the remaining places in the draw.

Why Seed 100% of Ranked Athletes?

Applying 100% seeding:

Recognizes results achieved throughout the season.
Prevents premature matchups between leading athletes.
Reduces the influence of chance.
Provides greater transparency and predictability.
Strengthens the value of the World Ranking.
Encourages participation in ranking-point events.

Athletes invest time, preparation and financial resources to compete internationally and earn a position in the ranking. If only 25% receive seeded positions, a significant part of that effort loses its influence when the draw is created.

The 100% model has been used historically across the continental circuits, with consistent precedents in Europe, Asia and Pan America. A clear and stable policy allows athletes and coaches to know in advance how the competition will be structured.

The Host Nation and the Fourth Seed

The host nation’s representative receives the fourth seed only at World Championships and biennial Continental Championships, provided if the athlete is not already ranked among the top four.

This exception does not apply to Opens, President’s Cups or other WT-recognized events.

Predictability Is Essential for Poomsae

Poomsae continues to consolidate its competitive structure and international position. For this reason, the discipline needs uniformity, transparency and stable procedures.

A 25% seeding rate is the regulatory minimum. Seeding 100% of ranked athletes makes full use of the World Ranking and offers a fairer, clearer and more predictable standard for all participants.

Source: World Taekwondo Poomsae Ranking Bylaw, Article 8, in force since March 25, 2026.