About Taekwon-Do

About Taekwon-Do

Taekwon-Do is a dynamic martial art and effective method of self defence originating from Korea. 

Translated literally, "Tae" means to kick or smash with the foot, "kwon" means to punch or destroy with the fist, and "Do" means an art or way. Thus taken collectively "Taekwon-Do" translates as "the art of hand and foot". 

Taekwon-Do is a relatively modern martial art, having been developed by General Choi Hong Hi in the late 1940s and early 1950s, culminating in the official naming of the art on April 11 1955. Founded on scientific principles, Taekwon-Do is famed for its kicking techniques, which distinguishes it from other martial arts such as Japanese Karate or Chinese Kung Fu. 

In the decades that followed its creation, Taekwon-Do divided into two distinct styles - ITF and WTF. The International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF), founded in March 1966 continues to teach the original style of Taekwon-Do introduced by General Choi. The World Taekwon-Do Federation (WTF) was formed by the South Korean Government in 1973 in an effort to regain some control over their "national sport" that was rapidly globalizing. 

The two styles share similar terminology and phrases, however they differ in technique and philosophy. The ITF is generally considered more of a 'traditional' martial art, equally balancing physical, technical and mental aspects, whereas the WTF tends to be more focused on sporting and competitive aspects (e.g. the Olympics). Furthermore, the two styles differ in the way that they spell the name of their art - ITF use "Taekwon-Do", whereas the WTF use "Taekwondo". 

Pil Sung Taekwon-Do teaches the ITF style of Taekwon-Do, and is affiliated to International Taekwon-Do (New Zealand national body) and the International Taekwon-Do Federation (international body)