Watching the high-flying kicks and powerful strikes of taekwondo, it’s easy to assume that this martial art has a long and illustrious history. And indeed, the journey of taekwondo is one that spans thousands of years and is steeped in tradition and philosophy. From its ancient roots to its modern-day popularity, taekwondo has evolved and thrived, leaving a lasting impact on the world of martial arts.
The origins of taekwondo can be traced back to the Korean peninsula, where a form of martial arts called “taekkyeon” was practiced during the kingdom of Koguryo (37 BC-668 AD). Taekkyeon was characterized by fluid, rhythmic movements and emphasized the use of the legs in fighting. As the Korean peninsula went through various dynasties, different forms of martial arts emerged, each with its unique techniques and philosophies.
One of the most influential figures in the history of taekwondo is General Choi Hong Hi. After serving in the Japanese army during World War II, General Choi became interested in martial arts and was trained in karate and taekkyeon. In 1955, he combined elements of these two martial arts and created taekwondo, which translates to “the way of the foot and fist.”
To differentiate taekwondo from other martial arts, General Choi introduced the use of “patterns” or “forms,” which are prearranged movements designed to simulate different fighting situations. This, along with a focus on sparring, made taekwondo a more practical and efficient form of self-defense. In 1966, General Choi established the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF), which spread taekwondo to over 120 countries and is recognized as the original and traditional form of taekwondo.
In the 1970s, taekwondo underwent further changes when the South Korean government introduced “sport taekwondo.” This version of taekwondo focused on flashy kicks and quick movements, making it more visually appealing for competition. As a result, sport taekwondo gained immense popularity and was eventually recognized as an Olympic sport in 2000.
While sport taekwondo focuses on physicality and competition, traditional taekwondo places equal importance on the mind and spirit. The five tenets of taekwondo – courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit – are more than just words, they are the core principles that govern the practice of taekwondo. Students are taught to respect themselves and others, to cultivate inner strength and discipline, and to have an unbreakable spirit in the face of challenges.
Today, taekwondo is a global phenomenon, with millions of practitioners around the world. Its popularity can be attributed to its effectiveness as a self-defense system, its competitive aspect, and its emphasis on character development. Taekwondo has also evolved to include different styles, such as Olympic-style and traditional taekwondo, that cater to the varying needs and preferences of practitioners.
The growth of taekwondo has also led to the establishment of numerous governing bodies and organizations, each with its own rules and regulations. In addition, taekwondo has been taught in schools and universities, further contributing to its widespread acceptance and practice.
In conclusion, the history of taekwondo is a rich and fascinating one. From its ancient roots to its modern-day variations, taekwondo has evolved and adapted, but its core principles remain the same. Its impact on the world of martial arts and its widespread practice speak volumes about its effectiveness and enduring appeal. As we continue to witness the growth and evolution of taekwondo, one can only wonder about the incredible journey this martial art will take in the years to come.