Cultural Post #4

One of the most popular things to have come out of Korea is 태권도 (Taekwondo). The martial art is one of the most popular things to have come out of the country (besides the music of course). It’s become a global phenomenon and even made its mark in the Olympics. Let’s start with the historical roots. Taekwondo started a long time ago in Korea, during a time called the Three Kingdoms Period (around 57 BCE to 668 CE). It borrowed some moves from an old Korean martial art called Taekkyeon. But it wasn't until the 1900s that Taekwondo got its name and became an official martial art. People wanted a martial art that was uniquely Korean, especially after Korea experienced some tough times, like the Japanese occupation.

Taekwondo is more than just kicking and punching. It's like a moral lesson. It takes bits of ideas from Confucianism (a Chinese philosophy), Buddhism, and old Korean values. Practicing Taekwondo teaches people to be respectful, honest, never give up, control themselves, and have a strong spirit. These ideas go beyond the gym and become part of a person's character, adding to the charm of Korean culture. Imagine Taekwondo as a dance with kicks and punches. The moves aren't just random; they have special meanings. The forms, called poomsae, are like a dance routine that shows the beauty, control, and power of Korean culture. It's like telling a story through movements, making Taekwondo a unique way of expressing Korea's history and traditions.

As mentioned before, although Taekwondo is and will always be Korean at heart, it has become famous everywhere. It's been an official Olympic sport since the year 2000. This means people from all over the world get to see Taekwondo at the biggest sports event. Taekwondo isn't just a Korean thing; it's like a global friend that helps different countries understand and connect with each other. Although Korea is evolving constantly and becoming, Taekwondo is an example of how certain traditions and cultures can last forever. It helps link the past and the future, making sure the wisdom from long ago isn't forgotten.
Taekwondo isn't just a sport, it's a balanced mix of history, lessons, and cultural stories. As Korea's way of saying hello to the world, Taekwondo teaches not only kicks and punches but also the values that make people better. So, next time you see those high-flying kicks or hear about Taekwondo in the Olympics, remember, it's more than a sport – it's Korea's resilience in history and tradition making way across the globe and introducing deeper aspects of Korea over the commonly seen Kpop and Kdramas.

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Comments

  • I actually didn't know much about the history of Taekwondo and this post was very helpful and informative. I've always wanted to learn Taekwondo growing up as it teaches not only how to fight but the mindset behind it. I think it is the most important to understand the special meanings behind the actions. 

  • I think Taekwondo is one of the things that Korean children commonly do after school. I also used to do some Taekwondo when I was young as well. When I go back to South Korea I see a lot of children wearing Taekwondo uniforms. I appreciate sharing one of the cultures that is unknown compared to other well-known aspects.

  • Wow, I did not know the roots of Taekwondo went that far back nor that it held such high significance for Koreans. I would not have considered a martial arts sport to promote moral values. Learning how movements are specifically coordinated to tell a story is fascinating! I would be interested in learning more about what other moves symbolize and how it relates to the Korea's history. 

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