Kata judges play a vital role in the evaluation and preservation of kata by ensuring that the techniques and principles of judo are transmitted faithfully and with excellence. Their role is essential to ensuring that each judoka understands and applies the very essence of judo through kata. Kata are the alphabet of judo.

They are responsible for evaluating the precision, execution, and authenticity of kata demonstrations during grading examinations, competitions, or official events. Judges must award scores based on several criteria, and the final scores are usually determined by taking into account the average of the evaluations of the various judges present.

They are, of course, highly knowledgeable about kata and experienced judoka!