Section 6: Scoring
6.1 Protector and Scoring System (PSS)
WT competition uses the Protector and Scoring System (PSS), an electronic scoring platform that registers valid strikes based on impact force, target location, and striking tool. The trunk protector, head protector, electronic socks, and electronic gloves all communicate wirelessly with the central scoring computer. A valid score is registered when the correct striking area (foot sensor or glove sensor) impacts the correct target (trunk or head protector sensor) with force exceeding the calibrated threshold. The force threshold is adjustable and is set by the Technical Delegate based on the competition level, weight category, and gender.
6.2 Point Values
- Punch to trunk protector: 1 point — delivered with the front of a closed fist (glove sensor) to the trunk protector.
- Kick to trunk protector: 2 points — any valid kick (foot sensor) to the trunk protector.
- Turning kick to trunk protector: 4 points — a kick involving 180° or more of body rotation (spinning back kick, spinning side kick, etc.) striking the trunk protector.
- Kick to head protector: 3 points — any valid kick to the head protector.
- Turning kick to head protector: 5 points — a spinning or turning kick (180°+ rotation) to the head protector. This is the highest-scoring single technique in taekwondo.
6.3 Supplementary Scoring by Judges
Corner judges may award points for valid techniques that the PSS does not register electronically. This typically applies to techniques delivered at close range or unusual angles where sensor contact may be incomplete. A majority of judges must agree for a supplementary point to be awarded. The review jury may also correct obvious scoring errors identified during or after a round.
6.4 Scoring Technology Calibration
The PSS force thresholds are calibrated before each competition by the Technical Delegate and equipment officials. Different thresholds are set for different weight categories and genders to ensure that valid techniques register appropriately across divisions. For example, lighter weight categories use lower force thresholds than heavier divisions. The head protector threshold is typically set lower than the trunk protector threshold, reflecting the greater difficulty and risk of head kicks. Calibration tests are conducted using standardized impact tools, and the settings are documented in the competition technical report.
6.5 Determining the Winner
The competitor with the higher total score (including penalty points awarded from the opponent's gam-jeom) at the end of 3 rounds wins by final score. The complete hierarchy of victory conditions, in order of precedence, is:
- Knockout (KO): Opponent cannot rise within the 10-count.
- Referee Stop Contest (RSC): Referee determines a competitor is unable to continue safely.
- Point gap: 20-point lead at any time during the match.
- Disqualification: Accumulation of 10 gam-jeom or instant disqualification offense.
- Withdrawal: Competitor or coach voluntarily withdraws.
- Final score: Higher total at the end of 3 rounds.
- Golden Round: First to score in the 4th round (1 minute).
- Superiority decision: Judges evaluate initiative and technique quality if the Golden Round produces no score. This decision is final and cannot be appealed.