Sumi

In Go, the Japanese term sumi refers to the corner regions of the board. These areas are particularly valuable in the early stages of the game due to their efficiency for securing territory with fewer moves. A single move in the corner can exert control over two edges simultaneously, making it a high-value strategic point.

Openings often begin in the corners, with common plays such as the 3-4 point or 4-4 point, as they provide a solid base for development. From these starting points, players can expand towards the sides and center while maintaining secure territory in the corners.

Understanding how to use and defend the corner — or to invade your opponent’s — is fundamental to improvement in Go.

Discover more about corners and the reasons we play there in the Where Do I Begin? lesson from The Fundamentals of Go on 13×13 course.