First-scoring patterns associated with winning in Taekwondo Kyorugi under the best-of-three system: A sequential pattern mining approach

Abstract

This study examined first-scoring patterns associated with winning in Taekwondo kyorugi under the best-of-three (Bo3) system using sequential pattern mining. A total of 545 matches were analyzed according to sex and weight categories. Match events were categorized according to round, time interval, attack type, and round outcome to identify patterns associated with winning. Across all groups, early round scoring actions, particularly body kicks, head kicks, and opponent penalties ( gam-jeom ), were consistently associated with successful outcomes. Distinct sex-specific differences were observed in first-scoring patterns. Female athletes tended to exhibit stronger phase-specific concentrations of winning patterns, whereas male athletes showed successful patterns across a broader range of competitive situations. These findings suggest that early offensive initiative and effective penalty management are critical determinants of success under the Bo3 format. The results provide practical insights for coaches seeking to optimize early round tactical preparation and sex- and weight-specific tactical strategies in Taekwondo kyorugi.