Illustrated Tae geuk Forms

Tae kwon do Patterns

Another set of patterns in the WTF style are the tae geuk forms.

Like the palgwe forms, these poomse are taught to colored belt students to cement their foundation in TKD basics.

Likewise, these patterns attempt to embody the philosophy of the eight trigrams. The eight trigrams are the primary combinations of yin-yang (um-yang in Korean).

Taegeuk is the Korean name for the yin-yang symbol which depicts perfect balance and harmony of the universe.

Taegeuk | South Korean Flag

Taegeuk is the Korean name for the yin-yang symbol which depicts perfect balance and harmony of the universe.

Taegeuk are a set of 8 forms.

The South Korean flag shows the symbol surrounded by four of the eight primary trigrams. All eight trigrams are represented by the TKD patterns.

These forms are meant to be more modern and combat worthy than the more traditional palgwe forms.

Both sets of patterns were conceived in the 1970's with palgwe being first.

The taegeuk poomse are meant to follow all eight trigrams and with a pattern of three linear lines in plan view. The attempt is made to equate each form with one of the eight primary trigrams as a way to underpin the philosophy of tae kwon do to forms practice.

The connection between the movements and the trigrams is tenuous.

The taegeuk forms were meant to replace the palgwe, but both are still widely used. Personal preference is really the only standard to use when deciding which set is better.

Harmony is created by balance between two opposing forces.

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