What is Tae Kwon Do? *

Tae Kwon Do is a Martial Art style originating in Korea. Its roots stretch back some 2,600 years ago with the HwaRangDo warriors and their systems of defense called TaeKyun and SooBakDo. Tae Kwon Do incorporates the abrupt, straight, linear movements of Karate (Japanese for "Empty Hand") and the flowing, circular patterns of Kung Fu (Chinese for "Tasks") with its own unparalleled kicking techniques to form a unique system of self improvement, defense, and control of one's mind, body and behavior.

Literally translated, the Korean word, "TAE" means "to kick or squash with the foot" or "a system of foot techniques." "KWON" implies "a hand or fist to block, punch, strike or destroy" or "a system of hand techniques." "DO" denotes an "art," a "way," a "discipline," a "way of life" or " the art of experiencing the ultimate being through physical and metaphysical enlightenment." It is the way in which the dynamics of the human personality interact with the forces of the universe. Thus, "TAE KWON DO" means "the art of kicking, block and punching" or "the art of unarmed combat."

However, this is only a superficial translation. "DO", in Korean, implies a philosophical viewpoint or way of approaching life - a means by which enlightenment is achieved with the goal of worldwide peace. Yet even that is not a complete definition. Tae Kwon Do is not merely a philosophical fighting skill - rather it is an action philosophy, a way of thought and life. Through strict discipline and rigorous physical training students of the art seek to improve themselves physically, mentally and spiritually; uniting all these aspects into a more complete whole. The true essence of Tae Kwon Do cannot be shown, touched, smelled, tasted or even fully explained with just words. It can only by experienced.

You may have noticed that we have yet to completely answer the question of what Tae Kwon Do is, exactly. To do so is impossible. Our answer instead is to invite you to come study and experience Tae Kwon Do with us, and find out for yourself.

*Remember that a full and complete study of the history of TaeKwonDo is presented in TaeKwonStudies 101, taught at the Han Guek Kwan, and is required for attaining Black Belt at the Han Guek Kwan.