TaeKwonDo is an unequaled method of unarmed self-defense. The techniques of TaeKwonDo have evolved for centuries into an effective method of self-defense, but at the same time, an intricate art as well as a method of maintaining physical fitness.

Approximately 1,300 years ago, during the 6th century A.D., the Korean Peninsula was divided into three kingdoms: Silla, Koguryo and Baek Je.

Silla, the smallest of these kingdoms, was constantly under invasion and their present and harassment by its two more powerful northern and western neighbors. During the reign of Chin Heung, twenty-fourth king of Silla, the young aristocrats and warrior class formed an elite warrior corps called Hwa Rang-do.

This group of warriors- in addition to the ordinary training in spear, bow, and sword- were also trained by practicing mental and physical discipline, and various forms of hand and foot fighting (Soo Bak and Tae Kyon). To harden their bodies, they climbed rugged mountains, swam the turbulent rivers in the coolest months, and drove themselves unmercifully to prepare for the task of defending their homeland.

To guide themselves and give purpose to their knighthood, they incorporated a five - point code of conduct set forth by their country's greatest monk and scholar Wan Kany:

1) be loyal to your king;
2) be obedient to your parents;
3) be honorable to your friends;
4) never retreat in battle;
5) make a just kill.

The Hwa Rang-Do became known for their courage and skill in battle, gaining respect from all their foes. The strength gained from observance of their code enabled them to attain feats of valor that became legendary. Through these feats, they inspired the people of the Silla to rise up and unite. From their victories, the Korean peninsula became united for the first time in history.

During the period of Hwa Rang-Do, the original art of foot fighting was called Soo Bak. The warriors of Hwa Rang-Do added a new dimension to this national art of foot fighting by gearing it to a combative art and infusing the principles of the Hwa Rang-Do. But with the occupation of Korea by the Japanese from 1909 to 1945, it was forbidden to practice any martial art.

Tae Kyon was secretly practiced and passed on to a handful of students. With the liberation of Korea in 1945, the new republic of Korea Armed Forces was organized. At this time Gen. Choi Hong Hi, an officer in this army, began teaching his martial art to some of his soldiers. Within a few years it became one of the cornerstones of training.

In April 1955 TaeKwonDo was chosen as the new name of the national martial art by a board of instructors, historians and other prominent persons. The name was selected for its apt description of the art; Tae(foot), Kwon(hand), Do(art). After 1,300 years a Korean martial art has reached full maturity, and has spread from a small band of aristocratic warriors to practitioners in more than sixty countries with millions of students.