Since Tae Kwon Do is a Korean sport, Learning Korean terminology in class is sometimes met with resistance, and other schools may choose not teach it or lack the knowledge to do so. While we try not to overwhelm students with Korean terms, we do feel that some basic knowledge in Korean terminology and culture is important for several reasons.

Most importantly, it is done out of respect for and to gain an appreciation of the culture.

Additionally, it aids in our martial arts education. Korean terminology is used throughout the Tae Kwon Do class, and understanding the meaning of these words will make participation in class more meaningful. Certain Korean words and phrases communicate descriptions, specific techniques, and ideas better than English words. Instead of saying “Drag the behind leg and kick with the front leg,” it is easier to simply call it a Pa-ruen-bal. In essence, since most all of the descriptions of techniques are probably not familiar to a beginner, one is already learning a new language.

Finally, French and English may be the diplomatic languages, but the diplomatic language of TKD is Korean. A colleague once told a story where he was in a TKD class with a student from Africa, “There was no other common language between us except Korean”. They were able to work out together using fragmented Korean terminology.