Ethics of Taekwondo

The Ethics of Taekwondo

As in all Martial Arts, ethics are of great importance. One can look at individual ethics, treat a fellow-man right, or one can look at social ethics, as part of a whole.

Ethics basically all comes down to one point, the difference between 'good' and 'evil'. We practice taekwondo, often seen as an aggressive sport, but does this mean that we can be aggressive? Do we want to be aggresive? The answer is NO!

We wear protection, because we don't want someone else to be injured, nor do we want to get hurt ourselves. Taekwondo is not a destructive and aggressive sport, but a sportive one. Taking part in a competition is not to hurt your opponent, but to test your strength, in both physical and mental ways.

Taekwondo students can improve themselves physically, and mentally by training. The final goal is to achieve harmony with nature and oneself. Balance is gained by controlling both evil and good forces (Yin vs. Yang): A true Taekwondo student knows how to behave in all situations.

Taekwondo (and this goes for every Martial Art) is not only a way to improve skills of self defense, but it's a way of life. Practicing Taekwondo gives the student more self-confidence, but this should not result in a false sense of superiority.

HwaRang code of honor

How to behave in the dojang

There are a few general rules:

    * Arrive early, not late.
    * Bowing is an international greeting and sign of respect.  Bow to your instructors, Masters and to the flag when you        enter as well as when you leave.
    * Come prepared with every class wearing a clean uniform and bring safety gear.
    * No horseplay, gum chewing, jewelry, or bad language spoken in the Do-Jang.
    * Ask permission to leave or enter class before it has started.
    * Come to class with a positive attitude and mindset to do your best.
    * YOU ARE THE BEST OF THE BEST!