komoku
A flexible corner opening played on the 3-4 intersection.
Also known as
3-4 point
The komoku, also called the 3-4 point, is a corner point located three lines from one edge and four lines from the other. A stone played there balances securing territory in the corner with developing influence toward the outside.
As an opening move, komoku is flexible: it can support corner territory, extensions along the sides, and a wide range of joseki. Unlike the hoshi, it is asymmetrical within the corner. Unlike the sansan, it is not primarily a deep territorial point. The direction chosen for the 3-4 point, together with later approach-move choices, significantly affects the resulting balance between territory and outward influence.
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