Chapter 1: Introduction

Taekwondo is steeped in history and tradition. While studying Taekwondo, students hear various references to Taekwondo history, such as in the names of hyung (forms or patterns), and are required to perform certain techniques based upon Taekwondo tradition, such as bowing. The more Taekwondo students know about its history and traditions, the better they will understand Taekwondo techniques and hyung, and the roots of their development.

Taekwondo instructors often speak of Taekwondo history in rather vague terms. Sometimes, students hear instructors mention the Silla Dynasty or the Hwarang, without much additional information. Instructors often describe Taekwondo as an age-old martial art that has its origins in ancient Korea. While the supposed antiquity of the Taekwondo may make it seek mysterious, it is also misleading. Taekwondo as a martial art is actually only about fifty-five years old. It is based upon ancient Korean martial arts and the martial arts of other countries, including Japan, but the actual martial art known Taekwondo was developed between 1945 and 1955 and only became known as Taekwondo in 1955.