Traditional dojo with sliding doors
The Heritage

Preserving the Soul of Shotokan

The Shotokan Karate-Do United Nations is more than a federation. It is a lineage of discipline, a global community, and a commitment to the original values taught by the masters of the past.

Our Journey Through Time

Trace the evolution of our art from its origins in Okinawa to its presence in over 70 nations today.

1922

The Mainland Dawn

Gichin Funakoshi's historic demonstration at the First National Athletic Exhibition in Tokyo opened the world's eyes to the discipline and philosophy of Shotokan Karate. His twenty precepts — the *Niju Kun* — became the philosophical backbone of the art, emphasizing character above technique.
The Mainland Dawn
1948

Formal Foundations

The post-war era saw Shotokan Karate codified into a formal curriculum. The Japan Karate Association (JKA) was founded, creating the first standardized grading syllabus and kata requirements that SKDUN continues to honour today.
Formal Foundations
1993

Foundation of SKDUN

A group of senior masters, united by their commitment to technical and philosophical purity, established the SKDUN as an alternative to the increasingly sport-focused federations. The name *United Nations* reflects the founding mission: to unite practitioners across borders under a single banner of respect and shared heritage.
Foundation of SKDUN
2005

Global Expansion

The 2000s saw SKDUN grow from a European-centred federation into a truly global organisation. Branches were established across Asia, South America, Africa and the Pacific, each preserving the technical standards set by the founding masters while honouring their local martial heritage.
Global Expansion
2024

A Global Leader

Today, SKDUN represents over 72 nations, 1,200 affiliated dojos, and more than 30,000 active members. The 30th World Championship set participation records, welcoming 1,500 athletes from six continents. The federation remains committed to its founding principle: the modernisation of karate should never come at the cost of its philosophical roots.
A Global Leader

The Pillars of Our Story

Authenticity

We strictly follow the technical syllabus of the Japan Karate Association's early masters, ensuring the art remains pure for future generations.

United Nations

Transcending borders and politics through the shared language of Budo.

Legacy

Every black belt in the SKDUN is a link in a chain that stretches back a century. Dedicated to the preservation and promotion of traditional Shotokan Karate-Do worldwide.

Become Part of the Narrative

Your journey in Karate-Do is the next chapter of our collective history. Join a federation that values your growth as much as the tradition itself.

Join SKDUN
70+ Member Nations
1,200+ Affiliated Dojos
30k+ Active Members
30+ World Championships