King's Indian Defense
The King's Indian Defense (1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 g6 3.Nc3 Bg7) is a hypermodern defense where Black fianchettos the kingside bishop and often launches a fierce kingside attack against White's queenside expansion.
← All openingsKey ideas
Fianchetto the kingside bishop; Allow White central space; Launch kingside attack with ...f5; Create tactical complications
Strengths
Dynamic counterattacking chances; sharp tactical play; clear plans for both sides; excellent for aggressive players
Watch out for
White gains space advantage; requires accurate and aggressive play; deeply theoretical; Black's position can become difficult
Typical pawn structure
Black: fianchettoed kingside bishop, often ...f5 pawn storm; White: strong pawn center
Common mistakes
Playing too slowly; Allowing White unchallenged queenside play; Mistiming the kingside attack; Weak king safety
History
Became popular in the 1940s-1950s through the games of Soviet players. World Champions Fischer, Kasparov, and Radjabov employed it as their main weapon. Known for leading to opposite-side castling and fierce attacks. Considered one of the most double-edged defenses.
Famous games
Fischer games; Kasparov King's Indian battles