The Meaning and Origins of Taekwondo: From Ancient Roots to Modern Martial Art

What does Taekwondo really mean? Where did it come from?

Today, millions of people practice Taekwondo worldwide, but its story began centuries ago in Korea. From the battlefields of the Hwarang warriors to the global recognition of the Kukkiwon, Taekwondo is more than a martial art, it’s a way of life.

At TVMA Academy in Lake in the Hills, IL, we proudly teach Kukkiwon-certified Taekwondo, helping students connect to the deep history, meaning, and philosophy behind every kick, block, and bow.

What Does “Taekwondo” Mean?

The word Taekwondo is built from three Korean words:

• Tae (태): Foot, or to strike with the foot

• Kwon (권): Fist, or to strike with the hand

• Do (도): The way, the path, or the art

Together, Taekwondo means “The Way of the Foot and the Hand.”

But “Do” also implies something deeper: a philosophy, a way of living. Practicing Taekwondo isn’t just about learning how to fight. It’s about building character, respect, perseverance, and discipline.

Ancient Roots of Taekwondo

Taekwondo’s roots trace back nearly 2,000 years to early Korean martial traditions such as Taekkyeon and Subak, which emphasized kicks, open-hand strikes, and flowing movements. These arts were practiced for self-defense, fitness, and even military training.

One legendary influence was the Hwarang, an elite group of young warrior-scholars during the Silla Dynasty. The Hwarang trained not only in martial skills but also in music, literature, and philosophy. Their emphasis on courage, honor, and service to others still echoes in modern Taekwondo’s core values.

Modern Development in Korea

After World War II, Korean martial arts masters worked to unify different styles under one national martial art.

• In 1955, the name Taekwondo was officially chosen.

• In 1972, the Kukkiwon (World Taekwondo Headquarters) was founded in Seoul to establish global standards.

• Shortly after, the World Taekwondo Federation (now World Taekwondo, WT) was created, paving the way for international competitions and Olympic recognition.

Taekwondo Today: A Global Martial Art

Today, Taekwondo is practiced by over 70 million people in more than 200 countries. It became an official Olympic sport in 2000 and continues to grow worldwide.

At TVMA Academy, we emphasize that Taekwondo is not only a sport but also a discipline. Students learn to:

• Build confidence through setting and achieving goals.

• Show respect through etiquette and tradition.

• Develop discipline through consistent training.

• Gain self-defense skills for real-world readiness.

Why Train in Kukkiwon-Certified Taekwondo?

Not all Taekwondo schools follow the same standards. At a Kukkiwon-certified academy like TVMA, students receive:

• Internationally recognized Black Belt certification

• Official Kukkiwon poomsae training

• Access to Olympic-style sparring and tournaments

• Connection to Taekwondo’s cultural heritage

This ensures that every belt earned at TVMA Academy carries value worldwide.

Taekwondo History Timeline

Taekwondo Through the Ages: A Timeline of Origins and Growth

• Ancient Korea (c. 50 B.C. – 600 A.D.)
  Martial traditions such as Taekkyeon and Subak emerge, emphasizing kicks, open-hand strikes, and flowing movement.

• Silla Dynasty & the Hwarang (600s A.D.)
  The Hwarang, elite warrior-scholars, train in martial arts, music, and philosophy—emphasizing courage, honor, and respect.

• Post-WWII Korea (1940s–1950s)
  Martial arts masters unify different schools. In 1955, the name “Taekwondo” is officially chosen.

• The Kukkiwon Era (1972)
  The Kukkiwon (World Taekwondo Headquarters) is established in Seoul, setting global standards for poomsae, rank certification, and instructor training.

• Olympic Recognition (2000)
  Taekwondo becomes an official Olympic sport, further cementing its global reach.

• Today
  Over 70 million practitioners across 200+ countries, making Taekwondo one of the world’s most widely practiced martial arts.

Q: What does Taekwondo mean?

A: Tae = foot, Kwon = fist, Do = the way. Taekwondo means “The Way of the Foot and the Hand”—a martial art and a way of life focused on respect, discipline, and growth.

Q: Where did Taekwondo originate?

A: Taekwondo originated in Korea, unifying older arts like Taekkyeon and Subak. It was officially named in 1955 and standardized by the Kukkiwon in 1972.

Q: What role did the Hwarang play in Taekwondo?

A: The Hwarang were elite warrior-scholars in the Silla Dynasty. Their values—courage, honor, and service—heavily influence modern Taekwondo’s principles.

Q: Why is Kukkiwon certification important?

A: Kukkiwon certification provides internationally recognized rank, standardized poomsae training, and eligibility for World Taekwondo competitions.

Q: Is Taekwondo the same as Olympic Taekwondo?

A: Olympic Taekwondo is the WT sparring sport format. Training also includes forms (poomsae), self-defense, and character development.

Taekwondo is more than high kicks or sparring,it’s a tradition of courage, respect, and growth passed down through generations. Whether you’re stepping onto the mat for the first time or pursuing your Black Belt journey, every movement connects you to this rich history.

At TVMA Academy in Lake in the Hills, we are proud to teach Kukkiwon-certified Taekwondo, helping students build not just skills, but a legacy of discipline, confidence, and respect.