TKD History

A Brief History of Taekwondo and Its Styles

Taekwondo, a Korean martial art, has a rich history dating back centuries. Its roots can be traced to the ancient Korean martial arts of Hapkido, Tang Soo Do, and Soo Bahk Do. These arts, influenced by Chinese martial arts, gradually evolved into Taekwondo, which emerged as a distinct discipline in the mid-20th century.

In the 1950s, various Taekwondo schools and organizations began to form in South Korea. This led to the development of different styles, each with its unique characteristics and philosophies. The three primary styles of Taekwondo today are WTF (World Taekwondo Federation), ITF (International Taekwondo Federation), and ATA (American Taekwondo Association).

WTF (World Taekwondo Federation)

Founded in 1973, the WTF is the largest and most influential governing body of Taekwondo worldwide. It emphasizes Olympic-style competition, focusing on sparring, poomsae (forms), and breaking. WTF Taekwondo is characterized by its emphasis on speed, precision, and athleticism.

South Korea's Adoption of WTF: In 1973, the South Korean government officially adopted the WTF as the national governing body of Taekwondo. This decision helped to unify the various Taekwondo organizations within South Korea and promoted the sport's growth on a global scale.

Each of these styles has its own unique characteristics and philosophies, but they all share a common foundation in Korean martial arts. Taekwondo continues to grow in popularity worldwide, attracting practitioners of all ages and backgrounds.