An Introduction to Tae Kwon-Do
Founder of Tae Kwon-Do
The founder of Tae Kwon-Do is Major General Choi Hong Hi, 9th Dan (9th November 1918 – 15th June 2002). Tae Kwon-Do was inaugurated on April 11th 1955 following extensive research and development by the Founder. It was introduced into the UK by Master Rhee Ki Ha, 5th Dan in 1967.
Founder of AIMAA
Action International Martial Arts Association or AIMAA, is the leading and most innovative martial arts organisation today. AIMAA was founded in 1980 by Grandmaster Hee Il Cho, 9th Dan, to serve as a unifying body for martial artists of all styles and disciplines.
What is Tae Kwon-Do?
Tae Kwon-Do is an ancient form of unarmed combat practised for many centuries in the orient. Tae Kwon-Do became perfected into it present form in Korea. Translated from Korean into English, ‘Tae’ literally means to jump, kick or destroy with the foot. ‘Kwon’ literally means fist, punch or destroy with the hand, ‘Do’ means art, way or method. ‘Tae Kwon-Do’ therefore indicates the technique of unarmed combat for self defence, involving the skilled application of punches, kicks, blocks and dodges with the hand, arms and feet to the rapid destruction of the opponent.
Tenants of Tae Kwon-Do
The tenants should serve as a guide for all students of Tae Kwon-Do.
| Tenant | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Courtesy (Ye Ui) |
To be polite to ones’ instructors, seniors and fellow students. |
| Integrity (Yom Chi) |
To be honest with oneself. To be able to define right from wrong. |
| Persevence (In Nae) |
To achieve a goal, whether it is a higher grade or to perfect a new technique, one must not stop trying, one might perserve. |
| Indomitable Spirit (Baekjul Boolgool) |
To show courage, when your and your principles are pitted against overwhelming odds. |
| Self Control (Guk Gi) |
To lose ones’ temper when performing techniques against an opponent can be dangerous and show lack of control. To be able live, work and train within ones’ capability shows good self control. |