The Historical Background of Tang Soo Do
The history of Tang Soo Do is a journey that stretches back over two millennia. It encapsulates a blend of Korean, Chinese, and Japanese influences, evolving through various periods of Korean history, including the ancient Three Kingdoms period, the dynasties that followed, and the turbulent 20th century.
Ancient Origins
Tang Soo Do traces its roots to the era of the Three Kingdoms in Korea: Silla, Koguryo, and Paekche. Founded in 57 BC, 37 BC, and 18 BC respectively, these kingdoms frequently engaged in both war and cultural exchange. The Silla Dynasty, in particular, is noted for its development of martial arts. The Hwarang warriors, a group of young aristocrats from Silla, played a crucial role in unifying the Korean peninsula in 668 AD.
Medieval Developments
During the Koryo Dynasty (918-1392 AD), martial arts practices like Soo Bahk and Kwon Bop were refined and widely practiced, both in the military and among the general populace. The subsequent Choson Dynasty (1392-1910 AD) shifted focus towards Confucianism, which diminished the prominence of martial arts in Korean society.
The Influence of Japanese Occupation
The Japanese occupation of Korea from 1910 to 1945 had a significant impact on Korean martial arts. During this period, the practice of traditional Korean martial arts was banned. Many Koreans were exposed to Japanese martial arts such as Karate and Judo, which were incorporated into Korean martial arts practices. Despite these restrictions, Koreans secretly continued to practice and teach their traditional martial arts.
Modern Development: The Birth of Tang Soo Do
With the end of World War II and Korea's liberation from Japanese rule, several martial arts schools known as Kwans were established. Among them was the Moo Duk Kwan, founded by Hwang Kee in Seoul on November 9, 1945. Initially, Hwang Kee called the art he taught "Hwa Soo Do" but later adopted the name Tang Soo Do, meaning "The Way of the Tang Hand," reflecting its roots in both Korean and Chinese martial arts.
The Influence of Hwang Kee and Moo Duk Kwan
Hwang Kee's contribution to Tang Soo Do was profound. He blended techniques from various sources, including Chinese martial arts he had studied during his travels in Manchuria. Hwang Kee also incorporated techniques from the Korean martial arts manual "Muye Dobo Tongji" into Tang Soo Do, adding a historical depth to the practice.
International Spread
In 1968, Jae Chul Shin, a representative of the Korean Soo Bahk Do Association, traveled to the United States and established the United States Tang Soo Do Federation. This organization evolved into the World Tang Soo Do Association (WTSDA) in 1982, marking the beginning of Tang Soo Do as a globally recognized martial art. Today, the WTSDA continues to promote Tang Soo Do, emphasizing the development of both the individual and the art.
Conclusion
From its ancient origins in the Three Kingdoms of Korea to its modern incarnation as a globally practiced martial art, Tang Soo Do embodies a rich tapestry of history, culture, and martial prowess. It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Korean martial arts and the visionary contributions of masters like Hwang Kee.