In Europe and America, the former Soviet Union and Japan and South Korea in Asia, freehand rock climbing has become quite popular. The highest level of rock climbing in the world today is in Europe and America, especially in France and the United States. France is relatively dominant in artificial rock walls, while the United States is relatively strong in natural rock walls. In Asia, the level of Japan and South Korea is very high, and some of their players have reached the world level. The level of Chinese mainland, Hongkong and Taiwan Province Province is roughly the same, and it is in the middle level in Asia.
After more than ten years of development, freehand rock climbing in China has attracted more and more young people, and its development prospect is very gratifying. Since 1997, more than two national or international competitions have been held in China every year. In August, 2008, the highest level international rock climbing invitational tournament in China was held in Huashan, Xiyue, and the 2009 Asian Rock Climbing Championship will also be hosted by China. In the north of China, especially in Beijing, there are quite a few people who know about rock climbing. Rock climbing has become the fashion behavior of many teenagers here. Although rock climbing has not been well popularized in the whole country, it is gratifying that through the vigorous publicity of the news media in recent years, the southeast coast, southwest and northwest regions have also requested to carry out this sport. All kinds of natural and artificial rock climbing grounds have been built or are under construction for people to train and entertain.