The FIK (formerly called IKF) was established in 1970 and it is composed of national federations that exclusively represent their country/region in kendo. At the time of its establishment, 17 countries/regions were affiliated with the FIK. As of July 2024, 64 countries/regions are FIK affiliates. Its purpose is to propagate and develop kendo, iaido and jodo internationally, and to foster mutual trust and friendship among its affiliates. The headquarters of the FIK is located in Tokyo, Japan.