Thailand Wins First Poomsae World Gold in a Decade

Thailand's poomsae team won gold at the 2026 Chuncheon World Taekwondo Poomsae Championship in South Korea, running from September 16–20, 2024. On September 19, Thai athletes competed across five categories, with a highlight in the youth mixed pair event featuring competitors from 36 nations. Thailand fielded Punnawit Hongisipsai and Suchanant Intcharng, a newly paired duo who advanced through the rounds by defeating Iran, Italy, China, the United States, and Hong Kong before meeting Japan in the final. The Thai pair delivered outstanding technical execution with sharp, powerful choreography, scoring 9.100 points to defeat Japan's 9.050 points and claim gold.

Thailand secured a second gold medal in the under-17 freestyle team event, comprising Manun Thongbanbo, Natniree Khamsoad, Rinrada Namthongthai, Pirsak Saensanit, Pannathorn Sirisom, and Pongsikorn Thongdee. In the final, the team blended taekwondo techniques with music creatively, executed dramatic kicks and complete board breaks, and finished first with 9.260 points. The United States took silver with 9.060 points and the Philippines bronze with 8.920 points.

This marks Thailand's first world championship gold in poomsae in 10 years, since 2016 in Peru. Athletes Punnawit and Suchanant attributed their success to dedicated training and coaching guidance. Coach Lee Nayoon and assistant coach Ornawee Seesahakij praised the team's exceptional performance, noting the significance of ending a decade-long gold medal drought at the world championship. Both coaches emphasized the need to develop the young athletes further, particularly their physical strength, to prepare them for the senior division.

After four days of competition, Thailand has earned two gold medals, two silver medals, and three bronze medals, with three more events remaining.