Guidance for conducting a Promotion Test

Hosts and Examiners are responsible for providing a well organised and well- presented testing experience for candidates and spectators.

Lead Examiners are also responsible for ensuring that promotion tests are conducted to a high standard with rigorous testing syllabuses based on Kukkiwon assessment principles and with a transparent assessment criteria that all candidates understand prior to the test taking place.

A well-presented and enjoyable testing experience

A Taekwondo Poom or Dan promotion test should be a memorable and quality experience for all candidates.

Candidates have been training, sometimes for years, for this grading opportunity, and are paying fees in the hundreds of pounds. The customer expectation is therefore and rightly high.

Hosts and examiners must provide, at a minimum:

  • A well laid out testing hall with:
    • a well presented and dressed examiner table
    • A dressed awarding table / area
    • A clean and safe performance floor (free from obstacles and anything that may cause injury or hinder performance)
    • Seating for any spectators
  • A warm-up and preparation area sufficient for the anticipated number of candidates
  • A welfare and safeguarding officer in attendance to welcome candidates and their supporters to troubleshoot issues and manage concerns during the day.
  • A clear testing syllabus (that all candidates have been given in advance of the test so candidates know exactly what they will be asked to perform).
  • A welcome briefing by the lead examiner to all candidates, giving a running order for the day and a repeat of the previously distributed testing criteria
  • A transparent assessment process based on Kukkiwon principles and a minimum 60% pass mark, with a results collation system that aggregates the scoring of the full panel and enables feedback to be given to all candidates should it be requested.
  • A formal awarding ceremony for successful candidates with:
    • A graduation certificate (in lieu of the Kukkiwon certificate)*
    • A Dan or Poom belt for candidates taking 1st Poom / Dan

Hosts and Examiners are encouraged to add to this minimum requirement, with better branding, improved awards (such as uniforms) and other value- added materials that improve the look, feel and experience of the event.

*Graduation Certificates

It is common practice to award a certificate of achievement on the day of the test in lieu of receipt of the Kukkiwon certificate. A club/ group host can issue a UK Kukkiwon Office approved Graduation Certificate on the day.

Clubs / group hosts may also use a graduation certificate of their own design. This must not say Dan Certificate. Only the Kukkiwon are authorised to issue Dan Certification. All own design certificates must be approved by the UK Kukkiwon Office prior to the test day. Please submit any designs in advance for approval.