Introduction to Taekwondo (General)
Taekwondo, the “Way of the Foot & Fist” came to life in 1955. Prior to this time the primary striking arts practiced in Korea were Tang Soo Do, Kong Soo Do, and Kwon Bup (all remnants of more than four decades of Japanese occupation).
Korea was liberated in 1945 and the gateway for Taekwondo was opened. Originally there were five main civilian kwans. Additionally, a sixth kwan was added by the Republic of Korea Army to form the “Early Six Kwans of Taekwondo”
The name “Taekwondo” was chosen on April 11, 1955, at which time it became an art separate from Karate with the introduction of the Chang Heon Hyung (patterns).
Later, the Republic of Korea would institute Taekwondo as the national sport. At this time the nine existing kwans merged forming the more unified Kukkiwon. A new series of patterns were created (Pal-Gwe) and the new Kukki style of Taekwondo was born.
Both styles of Taekwondo spread throughout the world, finding inclusion in the military arts of many nations, as well as the International Olympic Games.
Although there are many less know, more modern inclusions to the family tree, the two primary systems of Taekwondo are Chang Heon (Traditional) and Kukki (Korea Modern).
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This Taekwondo section is written and maintained by our contributing Editor:
Sabum, Michael Bateman
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