Kun Khmer, also known as Pradal Serey, is a traditional martial art of Cambodia. In Cambodian, Kun means martial arts, Khmer means Khmer people - so the name Kun Khmer simply means " Khmer martial arts" . Meanwhile, Pradal Serey means "free fighting".
This is one of the two traditional martial arts of Cambodia (the other is Bokator, which was also included in the competition program of the 32nd SEA Games). Kun Khmer, or Pradal Serey, is said to have appeared in the 9th century with images carved on ancient temples. The famous Angkor Wat temple also has images of Kun Khmer warriors fighting each other.
Kun Khmer and Muay Thai create heated controversy.
However, most of the documents about Kun Khmer were lost during the war. During the Khmer Rouge period, Kun Khmer was almost wiped out and was only restored and developed in the last 15 years.
In Kun Khmer, fighters use all kinds of kicks, punches, knees, and elbows. Among them, elbows are the most popular. Elbow techniques are the main difference between Kun Khmer and Muay Thai. In other aspects, the two sports have many similarities.
There has been debate over the true origins of Kun Khmer and Muay Thai over the years. Cambodians believe that Muay Thai originated from Kun Khmer, while Muay Thai proponents claim that Kun Khmer is just a “copy”.
According to historical documents, evidence of the origin of Kun Khmer was destroyed in the war in the 15th century. Therefore, it is difficult for both sides to prove where this martial art originated. In 1995, Cambodia proposed to change the name of martial arts with similar forms (Kun Khmer and Muay Thai) to "Sovannaphum", meaning "golden land".
However, Thailand rejected this proposal. Up to now, Muay Thai has developed very strongly and reached the world level. While the name Kun Khmer is still strange to most Vietnamese martial arts followers.
Before the 32nd SEA Games, Cambodia dropped the name Muay Thai and used Kun Khmer instead. This decision created a huge controversy. Initially, the organizing committee chose the name "Muay", but it was opposed by the Cambodian people.
When Kun Khmer was officially named, Thailand reacted strongly and decided not to send athletes to compete at the 32nd SEA Games. Even Cambodian boxer Channa Chen had to withdraw from the tournament in Thailand to return home due to the backlash.
The International Muay Thai Federation (IFMA) also banned member countries (including Vietnam) from sending athletes to participate in Kun Khmer at the 32nd SEA Games. However, 5 countries still registered to participate in this sport including Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia. Of which, the Kun Khmer team competed with 17 athletes and 4 coaches.
Kun Khmer is held from May 6 to 14. Vietnam participates in 17/19 events (15 sparring and 2 forms) with the goal of winning at least 3 gold medals.
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