I started Taekwondo about 20 years ago and it’s safe to say that it has influenced all aspects of my life in a positive way. Taekwondo is far more than a martial art focused on kicks, strikes, and physical strength. Taekwondo is a discipline rooted in moral and ethical values, built around five key tenets: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit. These principles guide every student’s journey both on and off the mat, offering lifelong qualities that extend well beyond physical fitness. I hope that each and every student here can embody these tenets and gain as much benefit from Taekwondo as I do. 

1. Courtesy (Ye Ui)

Courtesy is the practice of showing respect to others, regardless of status or background. In Taekwondo, students bow to instructors, training partners, and even opponents—signs of humility and mutual respect. This tenet teaches us to treat others with kindness and consideration, a lesson that naturally extends into daily life, helping build stronger relationships and a more respectful community.

2. Integrity (Yom Chi)

Integrity is about being honest and having strong moral principles. For Taekwondo practitioners, this means doing what is right—even when no one is watching. Whether it’s being truthful during practice or upholding fair play in competition, integrity fosters trust and accountability. Outside the dojang, this tenet encourages individuals to make ethical choices and stand up for what is right.

3. Perseverance (In Nae)

Perseverance is the ability to persist through challenges and setbacks. Taekwondo is not easy—it demands patience, discipline, and constant effort. Every student faces moments of difficulty, whether mastering a new pattern or taking a grading. Yet, through perseverance, they learn that setbacks are not the end but are a step toward improvement. This mindset is invaluable in life, where success often comes only after many attempts.

4. Self-Control (Guk Gi)

Self-control is the ability to manage one’s emotions, actions, and reactions. In sparring or competition, it means knowing when to strike and when to hold back. In everyday situations, it helps individuals stay calm under pressure, resist negative impulses, and make thoughtful decisions. This tenet is essential not just for martial arts, but for managing stress, conflict, and personal relationships.

5. Indomitable Spirit (Baekjul Boolgool)

An indomitable spirit is an unbreakable will to overcome fear, adversity, and injustice. It is what drives a person to keep going even when the odds are against them. In Taekwondo, this means continuing to fight with heart, even in the face of defeat. In life, it inspires confidence, courage, and resilience in difficult times.