SIEM REAP: Cambodian martial arts are experiencing a meteoric rise on an international level, with Bokator being inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2022 and Kun Khmer and Bokator making their official debut at the Southeast Asia Games in May, where athletes from six countries competed for over 100 medals. This November, Cambodia will host the first ever World Kun Khmer Event at the historic Angkor Archeological Park in Siem Reap.

Not to be confused with Bokator, which is more performance based, Kun Khmer, or Pradal Serey (free fighting), is a style of kickboxing that descended from early forms of Khmer fighting techniques. A match consists of five three-minute rounds with a one-and-a-half or two minute break between each round. Boxers wear leather gloves and nylon shorts. Later this year, Lethwei boxing champ Dave Leduc is expected to have his final match in Cambodia while fighting in the Kun Khmer style out of respect for his host country.

Siem Reap is expected to host hundreds of athletes from nearly 100 countries between November 26 and 28 for the World Kun Khmer Tournament. The tournament will consist of three categories, including voluntary, mid-professional, and professional.