The British Karate Federation (BKF) is the official national governing body for karate in Great Britain, recognised by the World Karate Federation (WKF), the only karate organisation accepted by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). As the umbrella body for karate in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the BKF is responsible for overseeing the development, promotion, and governance of the sport across the UK.

Established to unify the various karate styles and regional organisations under one coordinated structure, the BKF plays a vital role in representing British karate on the international stage. It selects and manages the national teams competing at European and World Championships, as well as other major international events. Athletes from the BKF have gone on to achieve considerable success at these levels, earning medals and recognition for their skill and discipline.

The BKF works in partnership with its home nation bodies – English Karate National Governing Body (EKNGB), Karate Scotland, Karate Wales, and Karate Northern Ireland – to ensure consistent standards in coaching, refereeing, safeguarding, and athlete development. It also supports initiatives aimed at increasing participation, promoting inclusion, and aligning British karate with Olympic values and modern sporting governance.

By maintaining strong ties with the WKF and European Karate Federation (EKF), the British Karate Federation ensures that karate in Britain remains globally connected, competitive, and respected. Whether through elite performance or grassroots engagement, the BKF continues to shape the future of karate in the UK.