Taekwondo, a Korean martial art known for its dynamic kicks and disciplined training, has gained global popularity. Whether you're a practitioner, instructor, or enthusiast, understanding key English terms used in Taekwondo can enhance your training and communication. This guide covers fundamental vocabulary, from basic techniques to advanced concepts, helping you navigate the language of this martial art with confidence.

Basic Taekwondo Terminology

1. Dojang (도장) – The training hall where Taekwondo is practiced.

2. Dobok (도복) – The uniform worn during practice, typically consisting of a jacket, pants, and belt.

3. Belt System (띠) – Represents a practitioner’s rank:

   • White Belt (초급) – Beginner
   • Yellow Belt (노란 띠) – Intermediate beginner
   • Green Belt (초록 띠) – Developing skill
   • Blue Belt (파란 띠) – Advancing student
   • Red Belt (빨간 띠) – Approaching mastery
   • Black Belt (검은 띠) – Expert level (Dan ranks follow)

4. Kihap (기합) – A sharp shout used to focus energy during techniques.

   

5. Kyung Ye (경례) – A bow showing respect to instructors and fellow students.

Stances (서기 – Seogi)

Proper stance is crucial for balance and power. Common stances include:

• Joonbi Seogi (준비 서기) – Ready stance, feet shoulder-width apart.
• Ap Seogi (앞 서기) – Walking stance, used for forward movement.
• Dwit Kubi (뒷 굽이) – Back stance, weight on the rear leg for defense.
• Beom Seogi (범 서기) – Tiger stance, knees bent inward for agility.

Hand Techniques (수기 – Soolgi)

Taekwondo emphasizes both hand and foot techniques. Key hand strikes include:

• Jireugi (지르기) – Straight punch, delivered with the front two knuckles.
• Yeop Jireugi (옆 지르기) – Side punch, targeting the ribs.
• Dollyo Chigi (돌려 치기) – Roundhouse strike, using the back of the fist.
• Palmok Makgi (팔목 막기) – Forearm block, deflecting incoming attacks.

Kicking Techniques (발차기 – Balchagi)

Taekwondo is renowned for its powerful kicks. Essential kicks include:

• Ap Chagi (앞 차기) – Front kick, striking with the ball of the foot.
• Dollyo Chagi (돌려 차기) – Roundhouse kick, hitting with the instep.
• Yeop Chagi (옆 차기) – Side kick, delivered with the heel.
• Narae Chagi (나래 차기) – Flying kick, executed while jumping.
• Dwi Chagi (뒤 차기) – Back kick, a spinning technique for surprise attacks.

Forms (품새 – Poomsae)

Poomsae are prearranged sequences of movements simulating combat scenarios. Major forms include:

• Taegeuk Il Jang (태극 1장) – First form, focusing on basic techniques.
• Taegeuk Pal Jang (태극 8장) – Eighth form, incorporating advanced moves.
• Koryo (고려) – A black belt form emphasizing fluidity and precision.

Sparring (겨루기 – Gyeorugi)

Competitive sparring involves controlled combat with rules. Key terms:

• Jung (중) – Referee’s command to stop.
• Gyeong-go (경고) – Warning for minor rule violations.
• Gam-jeom (감점) – Deduction for serious infractions.
• Jeon-gong (전공) – Full point awarded for a clean strike.

Training Commands

Instructors use Korean phrases to direct classes:

• Shijak (시작) – Begin.
• Guman (그만) – Stop.
• Baro (바로) – Return to ready position.
• Gyesok (계속) – Continue.

Advanced Concepts

For higher-level practitioners, these terms are essential:

• Do (도) – The way or philosophy of Taekwondo.
• Hoshinsool (호신술) – Self-defense techniques.
• Gyeokpa (격파) – Breaking techniques, demonstrating power.
• Jeet Kune Do (절권도) – Though not Taekwondo, some concepts overlap in hybrid training.

Common Phrases in Taekwondo

• "Taekwon!" (태권!) – Traditional greeting.
• "Kamsahamnida" (감사합니다) – Thank you.
• "Annyeonghi gaseyo" (안녕히 가세요) – Goodbye.

Understanding these terms not only improves training but also deepens appreciation for Taekwondo’s cultural roots. Consistent practice and immersion in the language will help internalize these concepts, making you a more knowledgeable and skilled martial artist.

Taekwondo is more than physical movement—it’s a discipline that shapes character, respect, and perseverance. Mastering its vocabulary is a step toward mastering the art itself.