In an exclusive interview during the Paris-Levallois 2026 Grand Prix, the World Taekwondo Vice President explained that the project’s technical framework is established and contractual arrangements are being finalized. No prototype exists yet, but he expects to demonstrate an initial stage of development around this time next year.

Yang explained that the project remains in its preparatory phase, with the technical framework established and the contract still under review. Although he indicated that work has already begun in practice, he confirmed that there is no prototype yet.

His estimate concerns an early development demonstration, rather than an announced date for using the system in competition.

A project MASTKD has been following

The interview in Paris continues MASTKD’s coverage of the initiative throughout 2026.

In an interview published in February, Yang outlined his Smart Scoring proposal: incorporating AI-based motion recognition to distinguish techniques and overcome limitations of the current PSS.

Jinbang Yang proposes “Smart Scoring” with AI to evolve PSS and recover powerful techniques

He also described a gradual transition, with sensors and artificial intelligence working together while the technology develops greater accuracy and reliability.

In May, MASTKD interviewed him again at the Korea Taekwondo Association headquarters in Seoul, where he discussed the sporting and institutional structure of South Korean Taekwondo.

MASTKD at the KTA: Jin Bang Yang Explains the Structure of Korean Taekwondo from Seoul

In September, MASTKD reported on his Smart PSS presentation to the WT Council in Chuncheon. The roadmap envisaged completing basic development by the end of 2027, potential trials at G1 and G2 competitions during 2028, and a progressive rollout with Brisbane 2032 as the long-term objective.

The latest interview provides a clearer picture of where that process stands today.

Jin-bang Yang reinforces his AI-powered scoring project before World Taekwondo

Technical framework established, contract still pending

Yang explained that the technical framework is already in place, while the legal aspects of the contract between World Taekwondo and the development team remain under review.

During the interview, he expressed hope that the review could be completed in approximately one week. WT’s finance department would then finalize the contract, allowing the project to launch formally.

Asked directly whether a prototype exists, Yang confirmed that it does not. However, he expressed optimism about progressing slightly ahead of the original plan and presenting a basic demonstration around this time next year.

WT leads the project, with KTA in a supporting role

Asked whether the system would first be tested through the Korea Taekwondo Association, Yang clarified that the initiative belongs to World Taekwondo:

“This is a WT project.”

He explained that the KTA has a supporting role and confirmed that the development plan includes collaboration with Waychamp, KPNP and Daedo.

According to Yang, all three companies have broadly agreed to work together. The interview did not specify each manufacturer’s responsibilities or the contractual scope of that cooperation.

Addressing the current system’s limitations

Asked about the main purpose of introducing artificial intelligence, Yang identified overcoming the current PSS’s technical limitations and encouraging more active technical engagement in competition as priorities.

These objectives remain consistent with his earlier proposal: improving how actions are recognized to encourage greater technical variety.

The Paris interview focused on preparatory and administrative progress. It did not provide specifications for how AI-based recognition would operate or how it would be integrated into scoring.

Building confidence before the Olympic horizon

Asked about possible use at Brisbane 2032, Yang emphasized the need to develop the system well ahead of the Olympic Games.

He explained that the process must include fine-tuning, resolving problems and giving participants time to become familiar with the technology. Confidence in the system, he stressed, is essential:

“People should feel very comfortable and confident with the new system.”

His comments do not confirm that the technology will be used at Brisbane 2032. The Olympic horizon remains part of the project’s planning, while the basic demonstration anticipated for 2027 would represent an initial development milestone.

MASTKD’s latest interview places the project at a specific stage: its technical framework is established, work has begun, contractual formalities remain pending, and a prototype has yet to be developed.

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