Spirit of Taekwondo

The spirit of Taekwondo is the ideology of Geukgi(self-overcoming) and Hongik(humanitarianism), rooted in traditional Korean ideology. In other words, it consists of two values that mean “overcome oneself”and “benefit the world”. Geukgi is a principle that Taekwondo practitioners should use as a guide in the process of practice in order to obtain the desired strength. A practitioner must be able to repeatedly overcome their limits so that they can develop their strength and self. On the other hand, Hongik is a principle that should be used as a guideline in relation to the use of the strength acquired thorugh Taekwondo practice.

The five virtues of Taekwondo

The five virtues of Taekwondo are designed to be used as action guidelines for realizing the spirit of Taekwondo, Geukgi, and Hongik in everyday life, which have abstract and multilayered meanings, and are also to be used as major materials for youth character education through Taekwondo.

1) Perseverance(Innae)

Perseverance means the mental ability to endure and overcome the physical and psychological pain experienced in Taekwondo practice which is a process of constant Geukgi and fighting with oneself.

2) Courage(Yonggi)

Courage means being afraid of difficult opponents or tasks encountered during the practice process.

3) Courtesy(Yeui)

Courtesy refers to both humility, which lowers oneself in a relationship with another, and respect, which elevates the other person, at the same time.

4) Justice(Jeongui)

Justice is a sense that cares for us instead of caring for me, and caring for everyone instead of caring for us.

5) Volunteering(Bongsa)

Volunteering is an activity to support and serve someone while sharing one’s own possessions.