2026 Asian Games to include virtual taekwondo and NetEase esports

The 2026 Asian Games will feature significant expansions in digital and virtual sports, including the debut of virtual taekwondo and specific esports titles.

Virtual taekwondo has been approved as a new event by the Olympic Council of Asia. Unlike traditional esports, this discipline is classified under taekwondo rather than gaming, as it utilizes VR equipment and motion sensors to translate physical kicks into a digital environment. The format allows for competition regardless of gender or weight class, focusing on speed and precision. Many athletes are expected to compete in both traditional and virtual taekwondo disciplines.

In the esports category, NetEase titles will make their debut. The martial arts-themed game ‘Naraka: Bladepoint’ is scheduled to compete from September 23 to 24, while ‘Identity V’ will serve as the games' first asymmetric competitive event from September 28 to 30. The Chinese national teams for both titles have already secured qualification through undefeated performances in preliminary rounds.