What does 'Gyeorugi' signify in Taekwondo?

The term 'Gyeorugi' refers specifically to the Olympic-style sparring component of Taekwondo. This aspect emphasizes point-based competition, where participants score points by landing controlled strikes on their opponent, following the rules set forth by the World Taekwondo Federation. In this sparring format, athletes showcase their skills, speed, and control, which are critical for successful competition at various levels, including the Olympic Games.

This differentiates 'Gyeorugi' from other practices in Taekwondo, such as traditional forms, conditioning exercises, or meditation methods, which focus on different aspects of the martial art. The point-based competition nature of Gyeorugi emphasizes strategy, timing, and sport-specific techniques, making it a distinctive and recognized aspect of modern Taekwondo practice.