The 2024 National Kun Lbokator Championship were held in Phnom Penh from March 9 to 11. CKBF
As the “father” of the Kingdom’s ancient martial art of Kun Lbokator, Grandmaster San Kim Sean doesn't want to see this vital part of Khmer national identity lose its significance again.
After dedicating almost his entire life to researching, documenting and then revising the culture of Kun Lbokator, he now encourages the next generation of Cambodians to unite as one and ensure that the ancient techniques of their ancestors live on for eternity.
As vice-president of the Cambodian Kun Bokator Federation (CKBF), he expressed these sentiments as he addressed the closing ceremony of the 2024 National Kun Lbokator Championship, in Phnom Penh on March 11.
The event had 245 participants, including 105 males and 55 females, representing 29 Kun schools from 10 provinces and cities across Cambodia.
Throughout the three-day championship, Kim Sean observed the growing enthusiasm for Kun Lbokator, both in terms of the number of participants and the quality of competition.
Grandmaster San Kim Sean has called on young Cambodians to play their part in preserving what he called the ‘world’s oldest martial art’. CKBF
He believed the athletes he saw will go to play a key role in promoting and developing the sport, leading it to greater success on the global stage.
“I saw rapid progress in the organisation of the national championship, and the level of competition, both in combat and performance, has improved. Although there are winners and losers, I truly appreciate the determination of all the athletes. We must continue to strive forward to ensure our success globally,” he said.
“We will continue to organise these events even better in the future to ensure the success and prosperity of Kun Lbokator in Cambodia. It’s essential for our young generation to preserve this culture for eternity on the sacred land of our Khmer ancestors,” he added.
Master Kim Sean thanked all parties involved, especially the Kingdom’s leaders, who played an important role in revitalising and advancing Kun Lbokator.
He also highlighted the achievements of Cambodia, including the historical haul of 8 gold, 8 silver and 3 bronze medals at the 32nd SEA Games in 2023.
“Prime Minister Hun Manet has shown a strong commitment in leading various sectors, including Kun Khmer, which has expanded its potential in both Asia and globally. The revival of Kun Lbokator, the oldest martial art in the world, was made possible due to the unity, spirit, physical strength and national pride that is with us all,” he said.
The 2024 Championship included 18 events: 4 women’s combat and 7 men's, plus 6 individual display and one team display.
After three days of competition, the National Defence team claimed 5 gold medals and 1 bronze, securing first place.
Angkor Kun School from Siem Reap province came in second with 3 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze, followed closely by Ta Reach Kun School with 3 gold and 1 bronze. The National University Kun School secured 2 gold and 2 bronze.
Additionally, 5 other Kun schools won gold medals, while 8 won silver medals and 6 earned bronze.
Six schools were unable to make it onto the podium.
