About WKC

Purpose

The World Karate Confederation (WKC) was founded by a small group of karate enthusiasts on 4 May 1996 in Frankfurt, Germany.

Existing international karate organisations were either pure style federations or multi-style groups accepting only one federation per country. As a result, many federations and associations remained outside the international karate community.

WKC offers an option through which different styles and federations can join a worldwide body without compromising their style or size. To create opportunities for all, WKC accepts more than one federation or association per country.

The purpose of WKC is to regulate, spread and foster Karate in the world from an educational, cultural and sports point of view by promoting Karate ethics, technical seminars, championships and all that is necessary to encourage the spreading of Karate-Do all over the world and to promote friendly and beneficial relations between its members.

— WKC Statutes, Article 1.4

Membership criteria

Non-profit and non-political karate federations, associations and similar groups may become WKC members. They must have legal status, a democratic structure and comply with the aims and purpose of WKC.

WKC does not judge or interfere with the internal structures or policies of its members. Federations that comply with WKC rules are treated with equal respect.

WKC has member federations on all five continents.