Taekwondo

martial art · korean · sport · kicks

Born in Korea. Taekwondo comes from Korea and is one of the most popular martial arts in the world. It started after World War II and became an Olympic sport in 2000.

Kick-focused fighting. Taekwondo emphasizes fast, high kicks more than most martial arts. Fighters can score big points by landing kicks above the waist, especially spinning kicks!

Belt ranking system. Students wear colored belts to show their progress, starting with white and working toward black belt. Each new belt means you've mastered new techniques and forms.

Punches and discipline. While kicks are the star, taekwondo also teaches hand strikes and strong defensive skills. It's just as much about respect and self-discipline as it is about fighting.

Olympic sport. Taekwondo competitors from around the world compete in the Olympics, showing off their incredible speed, flexibility, and control on the mat.