The Evolution of Tae Kwon Do

Tae Kwon Do, the Korean martial art known for its high-flying kicks and powerful strikes, has a long and storied history that reflects the cultural and political changes in Korea. This comprehensive examination traces the development of Tae Kwon Do from its ancient origins to its present-day form as a global sport.

Ancient Roots

The roots of Tae Kwon Do can be traced back to the three kingdoms of ancient Korea: Silla, Koguryo, and Baekche. The earliest records of martial arts practice date back to around 50 B.C., with mural paintings in the royal tomb of Muyong-chong depicting unarmed combat techniques that are virtually identical to modern Tae Kwon Do techniques. During this period, the martial art known as Taek Kyon was practiced by the warrior class of the Koguryo kingdom.

The Hwarang and the Spread of Martial Arts

The Silla kingdom, though the smallest of the three, played a crucial role in the development of martial arts in Korea. Faced with constant attacks from Japanese pirates, the Silla kingdom sought help from the Koguryo kingdom. It was during this time that Taek Kyon was introduced to the Silla warrior class. These Taek Kyon-trained warriors, known as the Hwarang, were an elite group of young noblemen who played a significant role in the spread and development of martial arts across Korea. The Hwarang were trained in various disciplines, including history, Confucian philosophy, ethics, Buddhist morality, and, of course, Taek Kyon.

From Taek Kyon to Subak

During the Koryo dynasty (935-1392 A.D.), Taek Kyon underwent significant changes and became known as Subak. The focus of the martial art shifted from a sport and recreational activity to a system that promoted physical fitness and military skills. The reign of King Uijong (1147-1170) saw Subak reach its peak in popularity as a martial art. However, the decline of military importance and the rise of Confucian ideals during the Yi dynasty (1397-1907) led to a reduction in the practice of Subak, relegating it to a recreational activity.

Japanese Occupation and the Underground Martial Arts Movement

The Japanese occupation of Korea from 1910 to 1945 had a profound impact on Korean martial arts. The Japanese colonial government banned the practice of all Korean martial arts, forcing them to go underground. Despite the repression, many Koreans continued to practice their martial arts in secret, often in remote Buddhist temples. Some Koreans traveled abroad to study martial arts in China and Japan, bringing back new techniques and styles that would later influence the development of modern Tae Kwon Do.

The Birth of Modern Tae Kwon Do

Following Korea's liberation from Japanese rule in 1945, the martial arts began to reemerge. Many martial arts schools (kwans) were established, each teaching different variations of traditional Korean martial arts. The first conference of Tae Kyon was held in 1946 in an attempt to unify these various styles, but it was not until 1955 that the name "Tae Kwon Do" was officially adopted. The name was chosen to unify the different kwans under a single banner and to reflect the art's emphasis on both hand and foot techniques.

International Expansion and Recognition

Under the leadership of General Hong Hi Choi and other key figures, Tae Kwon Do began to gain international recognition. In 1966, the International Tae Kwon Do Federation (ITF) was established, and Tae Kwon Do demonstrations were held worldwide. The formation of the World Tae Kwon Do Federation (WTF) in 1973 further solidified Tae Kwon Do's status as a global sport. The WTF focused on promoting Tae Kwon Do as a competitive sport, leading to its inclusion as a demonstration sport in the 1988 Seoul Olympics and its official debut in the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Philosophy and Modern Practice

Tae Kwon Do is more than just a physical fighting skill; it is a way of life that emphasizes moral development and personal growth. The art is guided by five tenets: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit. These principles are reflected in the student oath and are considered essential for mastering the true essence of Tae Kwon Do. Today, Tae Kwon Do is practiced by millions of people worldwide, not only as a sport but also as a means of developing discipline, respect, and a strong moral character.

Conclusion

Tae Kwon Do has evolved from an ancient Korean martial art to a modern global sport. Its development has been shaped by historical events, cultural exchanges, and the efforts of dedicated martial artists. Today, Tae Kwon Do continues to thrive, promoting physical fitness, mental discipline, and a philosophy of peace and respect.