Taekwondo is an art of self-defense, the national martial art of South Korea and a modern Olympic sport. Millions of people all over the world practice it. In South Korea it is taught in primary schools, in private schools (Dojang : Drill Hall) and in the military. The literal translation of Taekwondo is "The Art of Kicking and Punching." Taekwondo is sometimes referred to as "Korean Karate." Although appearing very similar to Karate, there are some distinct differences, mainly in the area of kicking.

The Taekwondo stylist uses punching, blocking, jumping, parrying and dodging along with a vast array of kicks to formulate a system of unarmed self-defense with an emphasis on building a strong moral character. It is a way of training the body and mind together, and its final goal is deep inner peace, built upon confidence, compassion and wisdom.

The best way to know if Korean Taekwondo School is for you is to watch a class. After that, starting is easy. You don't have to be in shape, nor do you need a uniform or any equipment to begin training. Just wear loose fitting clothes, sign up and jump in the back, watch and copy!

Taekwondo aims to achieve:

• Courtesy (Ye Ui)
• Integrity (Yom Chi)
• Perseverance (In Nae)
• Self-Control (Guk Gi)
• Indomitable Spirit (Baekjul Boolgool)

Grading is an exciting event for us!

Korean Taekwondo School holds promotional grading every 3 months. The goal of grading is to move up through the ranks so that you can learn new skill. 3 months(more than 20 sessions) allows most students to progress smoothly.

Parents and friends are invited to come and watch. Then about a week after a successful grading,  the student is awarded a new rank and given a rank certificate.

It seems as though every organization, even every school, has a different belt (Tti) ranking system. Korean Taekwondo School awards belt (Tti) ranks in the following order:

White Belt	Yellow Belt	Blue Belt	Red Blet	Black Belt
				1st - 3rd Poom (-15)
				1st - 9th Dan(15+)
	9th - 7th Gup > 80 Lessons	6th - 4th Gup > 150 Lessons	3rd - Chodanbo > 250 Lessons

If one is under the age of 15, they are called 1st Poom even if they have the skills of 1st Dan. "Tti" is a belt you put around your waist after wearing the uniform (Dobok).