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| Korean Taekwondo: A Moment of Power and Precision in Mid-Air! |
Introduction:
Greetings, dear readers! I hope this message finds you well. Today, I would like to offer a brief introduction to Taekwondo of Korea. I am also curious to see what differences you may notice compared to the Taekwondo you already know. So, let us begin
Taekwondo is more than a set of fighting techniques; it is a representative traditional martial art of Korea and a path of mental cultivation. Today, approximately 80 million people in over 200 countries practice it, and it has secured its place as an official Olympic sport. Yet the true value of Taekwondo lies not in its spectacular kicks alone, but in its philosophy of courtesy, perseverance, self-restraint, and peace. This article offers an in-depth look at the historical roots of Taekwondo, its technical features, the process by which it spread across the globe, and its cultural significance in contemporary society.
1. Historical Origins and Development of Taekwondo
1-1. The Martial Spirit of the Three Kingdoms
The origins of Taekwondo trace back to Korea’s Three Kingdoms period (Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla). In those days it was known by names such as Subak (手搏) and Taekgyeon (擇拳) and served as training for royalty and nobility, as military discipline, and as a form of folk recreation.
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Goguryeo: Murals in ancient tombs depict postures clearly showing kicking techniques, evidence that offensive and defensive methods were already systematized.
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Silla: The Hwarang youth corps emphasized not only martial skills but also moral cultivation and the virtues of loyalty and filial piety—values closely aligned with the spirit of modern Taekwondo.
1-2. Progress of the Martial Arts in the Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties
During the Goryeo and Joseon periods, martial arts developed both as military training and as popular activities that promoted health among common people. Of particular note, the late-Joseon military manual Muye Dobo Tongji (武藝圖譜通志) compiled and codified the martial systems of the time. It includes striking, blocking, thrusting, and kicking methods that resonate with movements recognizable in today’s Taekwondo poomsae.
1-3. Formation of Modern Taekwondo
In the early 20th century, while some influence came from Japanese and Chinese martial arts, modern Taekwondo distinguished itself through Korea’s native emphasis on kicking and through its enduring moral philosophy. In 1955, various schools unified, and the official name “Taekwondo (跆拳道)” came into use. “Tae (跆)” refers to techniques that employ the feet for kicking, “Kwon (拳)” refers to techniques that employ the hands for striking, and “Do (道)” signifies the path of spiritual cultivation and philosophy.
2. Techniques and Methods of Training
2-1. Fundamental Movements
Training in Taekwondo begins with foundational movements. Basic blocks, punches, and kicks develop balance, concentration, and strength. Through steady repetition, practitioners learn correct posture, efficient power delivery, and the rhythm inherent in the art.
2-2. Poomsae (Forms)
Poomsae are fixed sequences of movements performed in order; they allow practitioners to internalize offensive and defensive principles without an opponent. From beginner to advanced black-belt levels, there are more than seventeen standardized poomsae. Each sequence contains the tactical logic of combat and the meditative focus essential to mental discipline.
2-3. Sparring (Gyeorugi)
Sparring is partnered practice conducted with protective equipment to cultivate real-time judgment and distance control. The World Taekwondo (WT) style of sparring uses electronic scoring systems integrated into protective vests to register accuracy and impact. This system highlights the sport’s competitive dimension while preserving safety and fairness.
2-4. Breaking (Gyeokpa)
Breaking involves shattering boards or tiles with kicks, knife-hand strikes, and other techniques. It is a test of focus, timing, explosive power, and precision—not a mere display of brute force. Proper breaking demonstrates the harmony of mental concentration and technical control.
3. Philosophy and Spirit of Taekwondo
The heart of Taekwondo is its commitment to courtesy, perseverance, self-restraint, and peace, often summarized as the Five Tenets of Taekwondo:
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Courtesy (禮義) — Respect for one’s instructor, peers, and oneself.
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Integrity (廉恥) — Acting uprightly with a conscience that knows shame.
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Perseverance (忍耐) — Continuing one’s practice diligently in the face of difficulty.
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Self-Control (克己) — Overcoming selfish impulses and personal limitations.
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Indomitable Spirit (百折不屈) — Remaining unbowed by any hardship.
Students engrave these values in body and mind as they progress, and in doing so, they come to see Taekwondo as a lifelong path rather than a set of techniques.
4. The Global Spread of Taekwondo
4-1. Worldwide Expansion after the Korean War
Beginning in the 1950s, Taekwondo reached the United States through the presence of U.S. Forces in Korea. From there, it spread to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America through returning soldiers, emigrants, and pioneering Korean instructors sent abroad. Demonstrations, international competitions, and community dojangs helped root Taekwondo in local cultures.
4-2. Differences between WT and ITF
Today, two principal international bodies guide Taekwondo:
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World Taekwondo (WT): Oversees the Olympic discipline and emphasizes sport competition with standardized rules and electronic scoring.
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International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF): Places greater emphasis on preserving traditional forms and a wider range of hand techniques within its curriculum.
4-3. Adoption as an Official Olympic Sport
Taekwondo was featured as a demonstration sport at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. In a landmark moment for Korean culture on the global sporting stage, it became an official medal sport at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Since then, athletes from many nations have trained and competed with dedication, raising both competitive standards and international recognition.
5. Educational Value and Character Development
Taekwondo nurtures self-discipline, concentration, and cooperation, especially in children and adolescents. In many countries, it is offered in schools and after-school programs, where it is known for helping to prevent bullying, discourage delinquency, and support mental well-being. For adults, Taekwondo offers an avenue for stress relief, confidence building, and balanced fitness that integrates mind and body.
6. Taekwondo in Korean Society and Culture
Taekwondo is a cultural emblem of Korea. Korean cultural institutions continue to research and record its historical and traditional significance. National demonstration teams, international open tournaments, and global training exchanges serve as cultural diplomacy, introducing visitors and viewers worldwide to Korean etiquette, mindfulness, and aesthetics expressed through movement. The structured etiquette of bowing, the decorum of belt promotion tests, and the humility emphasized in daily practice reflect enduring Korean values of respect and modesty.
Conclusion — The Future Value of Taekwondo
Taekwondo is not merely a martial art; it is a cultural asset for all humanity that embodies a philosophy of peace. By preserving its traditions while evolving as a modern sport, Taekwondo continues to contribute to communities across generations and borders. May it be remembered that, for international readers, Taekwondo is far more than kicking and competition: it is a living cultural heritage carrying the spirit and philosophy of the Korean people.
Dear readers, this concludes our introduction to Taekwondo for today. I sincerely look forward to having the opportunity to share more with you in the future. Thank you very much for taking the time to read.
References
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World Taekwondo (WT), official website and publications
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Cultural Heritage–related materials and compilations on Korean intangible heritage
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Korea Taekwondo Association (KTA), annual reports and informational resources
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