What is Tae Kwon-Do?

It is a version of an ancient form of unarmed combat practiced for many centuries in the Orient. Tae Kwon-Do became perfected in its present form in Korea.

Translated from Korean “Tae” literally means to jump, kick or smash with the foot. “Kwon” means a fist – chiefly to punch or destroy with the hand or fist. “Do” means art, way or method. Tae Kwon-Do indicates the technique of unarmed combat for self-defence, involving the skilled application of punches, kicks, blocks, dodges and interception with the hand.

To the Korean people Tae Kwon-Do is more than a mere use of skilled movements. It also implies a way of thinking and life, particularly in instilling a concept and spirit of strict self – imposed discipline and an ideal of noble moral re-armament.

In these days of violence and intimidation, which seems to plague our modern societies, Tae Kwon-Do enables the weak to possess a fine weapon to defend himself or herself and defeat the opponent as well. When wrongly applied it can be a lethal weapon.

The Foundation of Tae Kwon-Do

Tae Kwon-Do was inaugurated in South Korea on 11th April 1955, following extensive research and development by the founder Major General Choi Hong Hi, 9th Degree Black Belt (1918 - 2002)

Tae Kwon-Do was first introduced into the UK in 1967.

Tae Kwon-Do Terminology

Tae Kwon-Do terminology is based on the Korean language, although some words were developed specifically for Tae Kwon-Do and do not otherwise appear in Korean vocabulary.

Using these terms enables a student to train anywhere in the world, over-riding all language difficulties.