Taekwondo, a martial art characterized by its dynamic kicks, rapid movements, and powerful strikes, traces its roots back to ancient Korea. With a rich history spanning over two thousand years, Taekwondo has evolved from a traditional form of self-defense into a global sport, cultural phenomenon, and way of life embraced by millions around the world.
The origins of Taekwondo can be traced back to the Korean peninsula during the Three Kingdoms period (57 BCE – 668 CE), where various forms of martial arts were practiced by warriors and soldiers to protect their kingdoms and maintain peace. These early martial arts, known as Taekkyon and Subak, laid the groundwork for the development of Taekwondo as we know it today.
During the Goguryeo Kingdom (37 BCE – 668 CE), martial arts training became institutionalized and incorporated into military education, with the aim of fostering discipline, courage, and physical fitness among soldiers. Techniques such as striking, blocking, and kicking were refined and codified, forming the basis of what would later become Taekwondo.
In the late 20th century, Taekwondo underwent a period of standardization and modernization, with the establishment of various schools and organizations dedicated to promoting the art globally. The Korea Taekwondo Association (KTA) was founded in 1959, followed by the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) in 1973, which unified and standardized the rules and regulations of Taekwondo competition.
One of the key milestones in the history of Taekwondo was its inclusion as an official Olympic sport at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia. This historic moment catapulted Taekwondo onto the global stage, increasing its popularity and visibility worldwide and inspiring millions of people to take up the sport.
Today, Taekwondo is practiced and taught in countries around the world, with millions of practitioners of all ages and backgrounds embracing its principles of discipline, respect, and perseverance. Taekwondo training encompasses a wide range of techniques, including kicks, punches, blocks, and forms (poomsae), as well as sparring and self-defense drills.
In addition to its physical benefits, Taekwondo offers practitioners a path to personal growth and self-discovery, promoting values such as integrity, humility, and indomitable spirit. Whether practiced for self-defense, physical fitness, competition, or personal development, Taekwondo offers something for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or ability.
Our store offers a curated selection of instructional books on Taekwondo that cover a wide range of topics, including technique breakdowns, training drills, history, and philosophy. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced practitioner seeking to refine your skills, our books provide valuable insights and practical guidance to help you excel in the dynamic and rewarding world of Taekwondo.
