Definition
Taekwondo is a martial art and sport that focuses on self-defense and self-realization. It involves training in unarmed defensive and offensive techniques, specializing in striking methods such as kicking. This definition encompasses the four key elements of Taekwondo: purpose, technique, training, and self-understanding as a martial art and sport.
Purpose
Taekwondo is primarily a combat technique. The fundamental reason we learn martial arts is to protect ourselves from unexpected attacks. What begins as a means of self-defense eventually evolves—through continued training—into a pursuit of self-realization, enabling practitioners to unlock their full potential. In this sense, the ultimate purpose of Taekwondo training is both self-defense and self-realization.
Technique
Taekwondo consists of "unarmed defensive and offensive techniques specializing in striking-based kicks." This definition reflects five key characteristics that distinguish Taekwondo from other martial arts:
Both defensive and offensive techniques
Techniques performed with bare hands
Techniques used while maintaining distance from an opponent
Techniques specialized in kicking
Kicks used in a striking manner
These five traits collectively set Taekwondo apart from other martial arts.
Training
The practice of Taekwondo is referred to as "su-ryeon" (修鍊), meaning more than just physical training—it also implies mental and spiritual discipline. Training aims not only to shape the body but also to cultivate the mind, helping practitioners become better human beings. The word su-ryeon means “to refine and polish through repeated practice by removing unnecessary elements so that techniques can be executed more effectively.” Ultimately, it embodies the goal of becoming a more mature and virtuous person.
The term originated in Taoism and shares similar meanings with Confucian self-cultivation and Buddhist spiritual practice. In this way, Taekwondo training is a holistic discipline that refines both body and mind, aiming to develop individuals who contribute positively to society. The spiritual and philosophical depth of Taekwondo aligns closely with Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist traditions.
Martial Sport
With the advent of modern weaponry such as guns and cannons, traditional martial arts lost their original function in warfare and gradually evolved into practices with new purposes. In Korea, martial arts were influenced by the unique spirit of pung-ryu (風流)—a cultural expression of elegance and joy—and transformed into competitive recreational activities enjoyed by both practitioners and spectators.
The sporting aspects of martial arts became more prominent during the development of modern Taekwondo in the mid-20th century. Today, Taekwondo is loved around the world as an Olympic sport. Its rise as an international sport was strongly supported by the compatibility between traditional Korean martial arts—shaped by pung-ryu and festive energy—and the competitive, recreational nature of modern sports.
The sportification of martial arts began during the modernization of traditional Korean martial arts and was completed in modern Taekwondo. In this regard, Taekwondo is a "martial sport" that embodies openness, enjoyment, competition, codified rules, and physical excellence.
Source: Kukkiwon Taekwondo Textbook (2021)