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History & Philosophy

 

Taekwondo is not limited to physical practice.

It is a heritage, an evolution, and a path. Understanding its history means understanding the meaning of its practice today.

 

Trigrams

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art with a rich history and a deep philosophy, founded on discipline, respect, and self-mastery.

MEANING OF THE WORD TAEKWONDO

Tae refers to the foot, Kwon to the fist, and Do to the way.

Taekwondo is therefore the way of the foot and the fist, but also a path of personal development.

Origins

Taekwondo finds its roots in ancient Korean martial arts such as Taekkyeon and Subak.

Originally, these disciplines were not only methods of combat,
but also tools for physical and mental development.

Modern evolution

In the 20th century, Taekwondo became structured with the creation of the Kukkiwon, which became a worldwide reference.

Historical evolution

  • Ancient Korean roots
  • Influence of the ancient Korean kingdoms
  • Ban during the Japanese occupation
  • Revival after the Korean War
  • Unification of Taekwondo

This evolution explains why Taekwondo today is both traditional and modern.

Modern structure

Today, Taekwondo is organized around major federations:

  • WT (World Taekwondo)
  • ITF (International Taekwon-Do Federation)
  • GTF (Global Taekwondo Federation)

Each has its own specificities, but all originate from the same heritage.

PHILOSOPHY OF TAEKWONDO

A martial path

Taekwondo is a path (“Do”) that goes beyond technique. Trigrams
It seeks balance between body and mind.

“Do” means that every training session is also work on oneself.

“Taekwondo is a school of life.”

A PHILOSOPHY OF LIFE

Taekwondo is not limited to physical practice. It is founded on essential values: discipline, respect, perseverance, and self-control.

« A martial art that builds the mind as much as the body »

Martial spirit

THE VALUES OF TAEKWONDO

Taekwondo is not limited to technique. It transmits an attitude, personal discipline and deep respect toward the instructor, training partners and the place of practice.

Respect

Respecting the instructor, partners, rules and the spirit of the dojang.

Discipline

Training with consistency, attention and commitment.

Perseverance

Moving forward step by step despite difficulties.

Self-control

Learning to control one’s actions, emotions and attitude.

PRACTITIONER’S OATH

I respect my instructor and training partners.
I practice with discipline, courage and perseverance.
I control my actions and my behavior.
I commit myself to progress in the spirit of Taekwondo.

Tradition & discipline

THE 8 COMMANDMENTS

The commandments of Taekwondo represent the human and martial qualities that every practitioner should strive to develop through daily practice.

1. Spirit

2. Conduct

3. Modesty

4. Sacrifice

5. Patience

6. Respect

7. Cleanliness

8. Loyalty

Some Korean terms:

Dojang: training hall
Dobok: training uniform
Sabumnim: master / instructor
Kwanjangnim: school master / head instructor
Charyot: attention
Kyongnye: salute / bow
Kihap: energy shout

Tradition vs modernity

Today, Taekwondo stands between two dimensions:

  • a deep martial heritage
  • an evolution toward a modern sport

  This dual identity explains the differences in practice that can be observed today.

Understanding this evolution helps to:

  • preserve the meaning of the art
  • avoid a purely sport-oriented vision
  • maintain a coherent practice

Our approach

In our Academy:

  • technique is a means, not an end in itself
  • progression is both physical and mental
  • teaching aims at understanding, not only execution

  We teach a Taekwondo that remains faithful to its original spirit.

What makes the difference

What distinguishes a martial practice from a purely sport practice:

  • the search for meaning
  • consistency between technique and intention
  • training the mind as much as the body
  • inner progression

Conclusion

Understanding the history and philosophy of Taekwondo means giving meaning to every movement practiced.

It is no longer just a practice.
It is a path.

 

Last edited: 13/05/2026