History of Ssireum in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 13, 2026

Ssireum, also known as Korean wrestling, is a traditional national sport of Korea with origins dating back to the fourth century. It is a folk wrestling style with a rich history and cultural significance. Ssireum involves two wrestlers who grip a cloth belt (satba) wrapped around their waists and thighs. The objective is to use strength and technique to throw the opponent to the ground. Matches are typically held in a sandpit, and the first wrestler to have any part of their body above the knee touch the ground loses. Ssireum is more than just a sport, it's a cultural symbol celebrated during festivals and traditional events.

October 1912: First Modern Ssireum Competition

In October 1912, the first modern Ssireum competition was held at Dansungsa theater in Seoul.

1927: Pan Chosun Ssireum Association Founded

In 1927, the Pan Chosun Ssireum Association was founded, marking a significant step in the formalization of Ssireum.

1936: First Pan Chosun Ssireum Championship Organized

In 1936, the First Pan Chosun Ssireum Championship was organized, and professional competitions were subsequently held for six consecutive years.

1937: Pan Chosun Ssireum Association Held Annual Contest Until 1937

Until 1937, the Pan Chosun Ssireum Association held an annual nationwide contest.

1946: Pan Chosun Ssireum Association Renamed

In 1946, the Pan Chosun Ssireum Association changed its name to "Daehan (Korea) Ssireum Association".

1956: Weight Classes Introduced

Weight classes were introduced in 1956 at the 12th National Ssireum Championship.

1964: President's Cup National Ssireum Competition Started

Since 1964, the Korea Ssireum Association holds the President's Cup National Ssireum Competition.

1994: Korean Ssireum Federation Proposed Ssireum Unification

In 1994, the Korean Ssireum Federation proposed the unification of Ssireum into a single left-sided style as the official style to be used by all competitors.

September 2008: First World Ssireum Championships

In September 2008, the first World Ssireum Championships were held during the Busan World TreX-Games. These were unofficial competitions.

2015: Asia and World Ssireum Championships

In 2015, the first Asia Ssireum Championship and fifth World Ssireum Championship took place simultaneously at Thuwana National Indoor Stadium in Yangon, Myanmar, from September 18 to 23.