Tae kwon do Terminology

---

Your education in tae kwon do terminology begins with the name of the art itself. Tae kwon do is a Korean martial art whose name literally translates as the “foot fist way”. More eloquently put, it means the method of the foot and fist or the path of the feet and hands. From a fighting standpoint, this is self-explanatory. Tae (foot), kwon (fist), do can be explained as a technique of self-defense and fighting whose primary weapons are the feet and hands. What makes tae kwon do unique is the use of the Korean word do.

Do translates as the way or the path in a more philosophical sense. When combined, these three simple words take on a whole new character from their literal translation.

---

Tae kwon do Etiquette

---

Tae kwon do can be described as an idealistic and physical means of becoming one with the universe through the study of martial art.

Living fully and in harmony with ones surroundings through the perfection of the art is living on the path or do.

A traditional school will use both tae kwon do terminology and bowing when addressing others.

Bowing is often misunderstood by Westerners.

It is not an act of submission or subservience but a very obvious and outward show of respect. Bowing signifies respect for yourself, tae kwon do, and the wonderful abundance of life in general.

We bow to our instructors and seniors.

A junior belt will bow to a senior belt to show respect and admiration for their higher rank.

A senior belt will bow to a junior belt to show appreciation for their willingness to train and attend classes.

We bow as we enter and leave our school, when we enter and leave a do-jang (gym room) and as a greeting to all members of our school.

In Asian culture, bowing is a symbol of deep regard and caring for the rights and lives of others.

From Tae kwon do Terminology to Etiquette | Greetings and Titles

---

---

Tae kwon do terminology are the Korean words used to identify various techniques and instructions from Master to student. From simple greetings and titles of address, to the words for punch, kick or block are used daily in a taekwondo school and classroom dojang.

Words of greeting and thanks are used commonly in the kwan as they should be in life outside the school. Tae kwon do terminology makes frequent use of titles when adressing fellow students and teachers.


Korean Language | Counting and Numbers

Commands for Movements

---

Next you will begin hearing specific commands for movements like ready or turn around.

Don't worry that you don't know what's going on. No one expects you to get it yet. A new student begins at the back of the classroom for a reason. Keep an eye on the senior belts in front of you and follow their example.

Commands and Movements

Kicks and Stances