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There are a total of 24 patterns in Taekwon-Do.
The Intrepretation of Patterns:
The name of the pattern, the number of movements, and the diagrammatic symbol of each pattern
symbolises either heroic figures in Korean history or instances relating to historical events.
CHON-JI (19): means literally "the Heaven and the Earth". It is, in the Orient, interpreted as the
creation of the world or the beginning of human history, therefore it is the initial pattern played by the
beginner. This pattern consists of two similar parts; one to represent the Heaven and the other the
Earth.
DAN-GUN (21): is named after the holy Dan-Gun, the legendary founder of Korea in the year 2333
B.C.
DO-SAN (24): is the pseudonym of the patriot Ahn Chang-Ho (1876-1938). The 24 movements
represent his entire life which he devoted to furthering the education of Korea and its independent
movement.
WON-HYO (28): was the noted monk who introduced Buddhism to the Silla Dynasty in the year 686
A.D.
YUL-GOK (38): is the pseudonym of the great philosopher and scholar Yi I (1536-1584) nicknamed
the "Confucius of Korea". The 38 movements of this pattern refer to his birthplace on the 38 degrees
latitude and the diagram represents "scholar.
JOONG-GUN (32): is named after the patriot Ahn Joong-Gun who assassinated Hiro-Bumi Ito, the
first Japanese governor-general of Korea, known as the man who played the leading part in the KoreaJapan merger. There are 32 movements In this pattern to represent Mr. Ahn`s age when he was
executed in the Lul-Shung prison in 1910.
TOl-GYE (37): is the pen name of the noted scholar Yi Hwang (16th century), an authority on neoConfucianism. The 37 movements in this pattern refer to his birthplace on the 37 degrees latitude, the
diagram represents "scholar.
HWA-RANG (29): is named after the Hwa-Rang youth group which originated in the Silla Dynasty in
the early 7th century. The 29 movements refer to the 29th Infantry Division, where Taekwon-Do
developed into maturity.
CHOONG-MOO(30): was the name given to the great Admiral Yi Soon-Sin of the Yi Dynasty. He
was reputed to have built the first armoured battleship (Kobukson) in 1592, which is said to be the
precursor of the present day submarine. The reason why this pattern ends with a left hand attack is to
symbolise his regrettable death, having no chance to show his unrestrained potentiality checked by the
forced reservation of his loyalty to the King.
Stances
Walking Stance
Korean: Gunnun Sogi
Length is one and a half shoulder width from big toe to big toe; width is shoulder wide from centre of
foot to centre of foot; extend the front knee outward until the knee cap forms a vertical line with the
heel; front leg is the primary leg; back foot is pointing off at an angle of 25 degrees.
Weight distribution: 50/50.
L-Stance
Korean: Niunja Sogi
Length is one and a half shoulder width from big toe of front foot to foot-sword of back foot; 2.5
centimetres in width from heel to heel; both feet turned in by 15 degrees; bend the rear leg until the
knee cap forms a vertical line with the toes, bending the front leg proportionally; back leg is the
primary leg. The toes of both feet point inwards slightly. The body is always either side or half facing
in this stance.: 30/70
Fixed Stance
Korean: Gojung Sogi
Fixed stance is similar to a lengthened L-stance, except that the weight distribution is even and both
legs are equally bent. Whether it is a left or right stance is therefore determined by the forward leg.
Weight distribution: 50/50
Sitting Stance
Korean: Annun Sogi
One and a half shoulder width from reverse footsword to reverse footsword; both knees are bent
evenly; extend the knees outward, bending until the knee caps come over the front sole; feet are
parallel.In sitting stance, sine wave is generated by almost straightening the knees, then bending them.
Weight distribution: 50/50. There is no obverse or reverse.
Parallel Ready Stance
Korean: Narani Junbi Sogi
This is the basic ready stance in Taekwon-Do. Shoulder width from footsword to footsword; feet are
parallel; body is relaxed; hands are to the front; the distance between the fists is about 5cms and 7cms
away from the abdomen; the distance between the elbows and the floating ribs is about lOcms; do not
extend the elbow to the side more than is necessary; hold the upper arms forword 30 degrees while
bending the forearms 40 degrees upward. Movements may be performed in this stance - sine wave is
generated by coming up onto the balls of the feet and dropping the body's weight.
Weight distribution: 50/50
Attention Stance (Chariot Sogi): Heels together; 45 degree angle between tthem; bow foreword 15
degrees; eyes face the front; drop the fists down naturally; slightly clenched.
Close Ready Stance (Moa Junbi Sogi): Feet together; left hand over right.
"A" - The distance between the philtrum and the fists is approximately 30cm.
"B" - The distance between the fists and the navel is approximately 15cm.
"C" - The distance between the hands and the abdomen is approximately 10cm.
Bending Ready Stance (Guburyo Junbi Sogi):
Standing leg is bent; footsword of the lifted leg is brought in towards the opposite knee; standing leg is
the primary leg; it is principally used as a preparatory position of side piercing and thrusting kicks.
X-Stance (Kyocha Sogi): Cross one foot over or behind the other, touching the ground slightly with
the front sole; place the body weight on the stationary foot; stationary leg is the primary leg.
Rear Foot Stance (Dwitbal Sogi): This stance is one shoulder width from footsword of back foot to
big toe of front foot; most of the weight is on the rear foot; front toes point in by 25 degrees; toes of
rear foot point in by 15 degrees; front knee is bent; front sole is slightly on the ground with heel about
2.5cm off ground; bend the rear leg until the knee comes over the toes; rear leg is primary leg.
Low Stance (Nachuo Sogi): This stance is the same as the walking stance except it is longer by one
foot.
Vertical Stance (Soojik Sogi): Length is one shoulder width from big toe of front foot to reverse
footsword of rear foot; the toes of both feet are pointing in by 15 degrees; legs are straight; 60% of
weight is on rear leg; rear leg is the primary leg.
Hand Parts:
Attacking and Blocking Tools:
Forefist
Back Fist
Side Punch
Under Fist
Long Fist
Open Fist
Middle knuckle Fist
Fore-Knuckle Fist
Ap Joomuk
Dung Joomuk
Yop Joomuk
Mit Joomuk
Ghin Joomuk
Pyun Joomuk
Joongji Joomuk
Mu Joomuk
Thumb-Knuckle Fist
Palm
Knife-Hand
Reverse Knife-Hand
Fingertips
Flat Fingertip
Straight Fingertip
Upset Fingertip
Angle Fingertip
Thumb
Forefinger
Double Fingertip
Arc Hand
Back Hand
Outer Forearm
Inner Forearm
Back Forearm
Under Forearm
Elbow
Finger Pincers
Base of Knife-Hand
Finger
Bear Hand
Bow Wrist
Finger Belly
Thumb Ridge
Pimji Joomuk
Sonbadak
Sonkal
Sonkal Dung
Sonkut
Opun Sonkut
Sun Sonkut
Dwigibun Sonkut
Homi Sonkut
Umffi
Han Sonkarak
Doo Sonkarak
Bandal Son
Sondung
Bakatpalmok
Anpalmok
Dung Palmok
Mitpalmok
Palkup
Jipge Son
Sonkal Batang
Jiap
Gomson
Sonmok Dung
Garak Badak
Umfl Batang
Foot Parts:
Ball of the Foot
Footsword
Back Sole
Knee
Back Heel
Instep
Side Instep
Reverse Footsword
Side Sole
Toes
Apkumchi
Balkal
Dwitkumch
Moorup
Dwichook
Baldung
Op Badung
Balkal Dung
Op Bal Badal
Balkut
Meaning of Belt Colours:
White- Signifies innocence, as that of a beginning student who has no previous knowledge of
Taekwon-Do.
Yellow- Signifies the Earth from which a plant sprouts and takes root as the Taekwon-Do foundation is
being laid.
Green- Signifies the plant’s growth as the Taekwon-Do skill begins to develop.
Blue- Signifies the heaven, towards which the plant matures into a towering tree as training in
Taekwon-Do progresses.
Red- Signifies danger, cautioning the student to exercise control and warning the opponent to stay
away.
Black- Opposite to white, signifying the maturity and proficiency in TaekwonDo. It also indicates the
wearer`s imperviousness to darkness and fear.
In Taekwon-Do each title is determined to the rank as follows:
1st - 3rd Degree National Instructor Boosabum
4th - 6th Degree International Instructor Sabum
7th - 8th Degree Master Instructor Sahyun
9th Degree Grand Master Saseong
Taekwondo Oath:
As a member of Taekwon-Do I do solemly pledge; to abide by the rules and the regulations of the
Taekwon-Do Federation, to strive always to be modest, courteous, and respectful to all members, in
particular to my seniors; to put the art into use only for self-defence, a defence of the weak, and never
to abuse my knowledge of the art.
Students Oath:
1) I shall observe the Tenets of Taekwondo.
2) I shall respect the instructor and seniors.
3) I shall never misuse Taekwondo.
4) I shall be a champion of freedomw and justice.
5) I shall build a more peaceful world.
Information applicable to White Belts/10th Gups
Korean Counting:
1 - Hana
2 - Dool
3 - Set
4 - Net
5 - Tasut
6 - Yasot
7 - llgop
8 - Yadol
9 - Ahop
10 - Yaul
Parts of the Body:
Ap Joomuk
Sonkal
An Palmok
Bakat Palmok
Ap Kumchi
Forefist
Knife Hand
Inner Forearm
Outer Forearm
Ball of the Foot
Stances:
Chariot Sogi
Narani Junbi Sogi
Annun Sogi
Gunnun Sogi
Attention Stance
Parallel Ready Stance
Sitting Stance
Walking Stance
Defensive Techniques;
Bakat Palmok Makgi
An Palmok Makgi
Baro Makgi
Bandae Makgi
Ap Jirugi
Baro Jirugi
Bandae Jirugi
Outer Forearm Block
Inner Forearm Block
Obverse Block (blocking over the primary leg)
Reverse Block (blocking opposite the primary leg)
Front Punch (punching to the front and on the centre line)
Obverse Punch (punching over the primary leg)
Reverse Punch (punching opposite the primary leg)
Sections and Targets;
Nopunde
Kaunde
Najunde
High (From shoulder level and above)
Middle (From shoulder level to the umbilicus)
Low (From waist level and below)
Miscellaneous;
Chariot
Junbi
Kyong Ye
Sijak
Dojang
Goman
Dobok
Barro
Hae San
Sho
Attention
Ready
Bow
Start
Practice Hall
Stop
Practice Suit
Return
Dismiss
Relax
Information Applicable to Yellow Tag/9th Gups
Counting (Continued):
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
Yolhana
Yoldool
Yolset
Yolnet
Yoltasut
Yolyasut
Yolilgop
Yolyodol
Yolahop
20 Samul
30 Sorun
40 Mahun
50 Chiun
60 Yesun
70 lrrun
80 Yodun
90 Ahun
100 Pek
L-Stance
Niunja Sogi
Defensive Techniques
Inside Block
Outside Block
Inward Block
Outward Block
An Makgi
Bakat Makgi
Anuro Makgi
Bakuro Makgi
Miscellaneous:
Wen
Orun
Tul
Duro Duro
Sambo Matsogi
Left
Right
Pattern
About Turn
3 Step Sparring
Pattern CHON-JI (19):
The following points should be remembered:
1. Walking Stance Forearm Low Block (Gunnun Sogi Palmok Najunde Makgi): The forearm reaches
the same level as the lower abdomnen of the defender. The body becomes half facing towards the
opponent.
2. Walking Stance Middle Front Punch (Gunnun Sogi Kaunde Ap Jirugi): The fist forms a vertical line
with the toes. The fist reaches the same level as the shoulder of the attacker. The fist is brought to the
center of the attackers body.
3. L-Stance Inner Forearm Middle Block (Niunja Sogi An Palmok Kaunde Makgi): The fist reaches the
same level as the shoulder of the defender. The body is half facing. The fist forms a triangle with the
shoulders.
Information applicable for Yellow Belts/8th Gups:
Knife Hand Guarding Block
Twin Forearm Block
Rising Block
Sonkal Daebi Makgi
Sang Palmok Makgi
Chookyo Makgi
Pattern DAN GUN (21):
The following points should be remembered:
1. L-Stance Knife-Hand Guarding Block (Niunja Sogi Sonkal Daebi Makgi): The fingertip reaches the
level of the shoulder of the defender. The knife-hand becomes half facing the opponent. The knife-hand
forms a triagle with the shoulders.
2. L-Stance Twin Forearm Block (Niunja Sogi Sang Palrnok Makgi): The front hand reaches the level
of the shoulder of the defender and is the primary hand.
3. Walking Stance Forearm Rising Block (Gunnun Sogi Palmok Chookyo Makgi): The forearm stays at
the centre of the defenders head, The inner forearm stays at the top of the head.
4. L-Stance Knife-Hand Middle Outward Strike (Niunja Sogi Sonkal Kaunde Bakuro Makgi): The
knife-hand reaches the same level as the shoulder of the defender. The body becomes half facing the
opponent.
Students should also be able to describe any new stance (see the section on stances) and should know
the meaning of their appropriate belt colour. This basic rule should be applied to all students.
Information Applicable to Green Tags/7th Gups:
Outer Forearm High Block
Wedging Block
Sun Sunkut Tulgi
Dung Joomuk Nopunde Yop Taerigi Backfist
Dollyo Chagi
Ap Cha Busigi
Yopcha Jirugi
Ban Jayoo Matsokgi
Balkal
Baldung
Jayoo Matsokgi
Bakat Palmok Nopunde Makgi
Hechyo Makgi
Straight Fingertip Thrust
High Side Strike
Turning Kick
Front Snap Kick
Side Piercing Kick
Semi Free Sparring
Footsword
Instep
Free Sparring
Pattern DO-SAN(24):
The following points should be remembered;
1. Walking Stance Outer Forearm High Side Block (Gunnun Sogi Bakat Palrnok nopunde Yop
Taerigi): The fist reaches the eye level of the defender. The fist forms a triangle with the shoulders.
2. Walking Stance Back Fist High Side Strike (Gunnun Sogi Dung Joomuk Nopunde Yop Taerigi):
The forefist reaches the eye level of the defender. The body becomes half facing towards the opponent.
3. Walking Stance Outer Forearm High Wedging Block (Gunnun Sogi Bakat Palmok Nopunde Hechyo
Makgi): The distance between the fists is equal to one shoulder width. The fists reaches the level of the
eyes of the defender.
4. Middle Front Snap Kick (Kaunde Apcha Busigi): The ball of the foot is the attacking tool. The
attacking tool reaches the solar plexus of the attacker.
Information applicable to Green Belts/6th Gups:
Close Ready Stance A
Fixed Stance
Bending Ready Stance
Forearm Circular Block
Knife Hand Inward Strike
Two Step Sparring
Moa Junbi Sogi A
Gojung Sogi
Gooburyo Sogi
Palrnok Dolynio Makgi
Sonkal-Anuro Taerigi
Ibo Matsogi
Pattern WON-HYO (28):
The folowing points should be remembered:
1. L-Stance Knife-Hand High Inward Strike (Niunja Sogi Sonkal Nopunde Anuro Taerigi): The knifehand reaches neck level of the attacker.
2. Fixed Stance Middle Punch (Gojung So Kaunde Jirugi): The body is half facing.
3. Forearm Circular Block (Palrnok Dollimyo Makgi): The inner forearm is used as the blocking tool.
The fist reaches the same level as the defenders shoulder. This shoulder should be slightly lower than
the opposite one.
4. L-Stance Forearm Middle Guarding Block (Niunja Sogi Palmok Kaunde Daebi Makgi): The forearm
becomes half facing the opponent. The fist reaches the same level as the defender.
5. Middle Side Piercing Kick (Kaunde Yopcha Jirugi): The footsword reaches the same level as the
shoulder of the defender.
6. Low Front Snap Kick (Najunde Apcha Boosigi): The foot reaches the same level as the lower
abdomen of the attacker.
Information applicable for Blue Tags/5th Gups:
X-Stance
Twin Knife-hand Block
Palm Hooking Block
Double Forearm Block
Front Elbow Strike
One Step Sparring
Kyocha Sogi
Sang Sonkal Makgi
Sonbadak Golcho Makgi
Doo Palmok Makgi
Ap Palkup Taerigi
Matsokgi
Pattern YUL-GOK (38)
The following points should be remembered:
1. Sitting Stance Middle Punch (Annun Sogi Kaunde Jurigi): The fist reaches the same level as the
shoulder of the attacker. The fist is brought to the centre of the attacker. The measure punch is on the
shoulder line.
2. L-Stance Twin Knife-Hand Block (Niunja Sogi Sang Sonkal Makgi): The side blocking hand usually
reaches the shoulder height of the defender.
3. Walking Stance Palm Middle Hooking Block (Gunnun Sogi Sonbadak Kaunde Golcho Makgi): The
palm must reach the target in an arc.
4. Walking Stance Front Elbow Strike (Gunnun Sogi Ap Palkup Taerigi): The backfist faces upwards.
The body is front facing.
5. X-Stance Back Fist High Side Strike (Kyocha Sogi Dung Joomuk Nopunde Yop Taerigi): The body
becomes side facing the opponent. The fist reaches the eye level of the attacker.
6. Walking Stance Double Forearm High Block (Gunnun Sogi Doo Palmok Nopunde Makgi): The
body becomes half facing the opponent. The fist reaches the eye level of the defender.
Information applicable to Blue Belts/4th Gups:
Close Ready Stance B
Rear Foot Stance
Low Stance
Close stance
Reverse Knife-hand Outward block
Palm Upward Block
X-Fist Rising Block
Palm Pressing Block
U-Shape Block
Side Front Snap Kick
Upper Elbow Strike
Twin Fist High Vertical Punch
Twin Fist Upset Punch
Angle Punch
Moa Junbi Sogi B
Dwitbal Sogi
Nachuo Sogi
Moa Sogi
Sonkal Dung Bakuro Makgi
Sonbadak OlIyo Makgi
Kyocha Joomuk Chukyo Makgi
Sonbadak Noolo Makgi
Digutja Makgi
Yobap Cha Busigi
Wipalgup Taerigi
Sang Joornuk Nopunde Sewo Jirugi
Sang Joornuk Dwijibo Jirugi
Kiokja Jirugi
Bandae Dollyo Chagi
Dwichook
Bandal Son
Reverse Turning Kick
Back Heel
Arc-hand
Pattern JOONG-GUN (32):
The following points should be remembered:
1. Low Side Front Snap Kick (Najunde Yobap Cha Busigi): The hip turns into the kick.
2. Rear Foot Stance Palm Upward Block (Dwitbal So Sonbadak OIIyo Makgi): The palm reaches the
solar plexus height of the defender.
3. Walking Stance Upper Elbow Strike (Gunnun So Wipalgup Taerigi): The body is front facing. The
point of the chin is the target.
4. Walking Stance Twin Fist High Vertical Punch (Gunnun So Sang Joomuk Sewo Jirugi): The fists
reaches the same level as the philtrurn of the defender.
5. Walking Stance Twinfist Upset Punch (Gunnun So Sang Dwijibo Jirugi): The back fist comes to the
same point as the elbow joint.
6. L- Stance Back Fist High Side Strike (Niunja So Dung Joornuk Nopunde Yop Taerigi).
7. Close Stance Angle Punch (Moa So Kiokja Jirugi): The fist reaches the shoulder line.
Information applicable for Red Tags/3rd Gups
X-Fist Pressing Block
W-Shape Block
Double Forearm Low Pushing Block
Knife-hand Low Guarding Block
Upset Fingertip Thrust
Back Fist Side Back Strike
Knee Upward Kick
Flat Finger Tip Thrust
Moorup
Naeryo Chagi
Sang Yop Palkat Jase
Dwijibun Sunkut
Opun Sunkut Flat
Gyokpa
Bandal Chagi
Bituro Chagi
Kyocha Joomuk Nollo Makgi
San Makgi
Doopalmok - Najunde Miro Makgi
Sonkal Najunde Daebi-Makgi
Dwijibun Sonkut Makgi
Dung Joornuk Yopdwi Taerigi
Moorup Ollyo Chagi
Opun Sonkut Tulgi
Knee
Downward Kick
Twin Side Elbow Posture
Upset Fingertip
Finger tip Thrust
Breaking
Cresent Kick
Twisting Kick
Pattern TOI-GYE (37):
The following points should be remembered:
1. Walking Stance Upset Fingertip Low Thrust (Gunnun So Dwijibun Sonkut Najunde Tulgi): The
fingertip reaches the level of the pubic region.
2. Close Stance Back Fist Side Back Strike (Moa Sogi Dung Joornuk Yopdwi Taerigi): The back fist
reaches the eye level of the attacker. The opposite hand is extended to the side downward.
3. Walking Stance X-Fist Pressing Block (Gunnun Sogi Kyocha Joomuk Noolo Majgi): The crossed
point reaches the same level as the lower abdomen of the defender.
4. Sitting Stance Outer Forearm W-Shape Block (Annun Sogi Bakat Palmok San Makgi): The outer
forearm reaches the same level as the defender’s philtrurn.
5. Knee Upward Kick (Moowp Ollyo Chagi): The palms become level with the elbows.
6.Walking Stance Flat Fingertip Thrust (Gunnun Sogi Opun Sonkut Nopunde Tulgi): The fingertip
reaches the level of the forehead of the attacker.
7. L-Stance Double Forearm Low Pushing Block (Niunja Sogi Doopalmok Najunde Miro Makgi): The
inner forearm reaches the same level as the lower abdomen of the defender.
8. L-Stance Back Fist Side Back Strike (Niunja Sogi Dung Joomuk Yopdwi Taerigi): The back fist
reaches slightly above the temple of the attacker.
9. X-Stance X-Fist Pressing Block (Kyocha Sogi Kyocha Joomuk Nollo Makgi): The cross point
reaches the same level as the lower abdomen.
10. L-Stance Knife-Hand Low Guarding Block (Niunja Sogi Sonkal Najunde Daebi Makgi): The
blocking hand is at the same level as the scrotum of the defender while the other is brought in front of
the lower abdomen. The front snap kick in pattern Toi-Gye is middle section.
KOREA:
The name Korea is believed by some to be derived from the phrase "high mountains and sparkling
streams,". Another name, Chosen, is often translated, "The land of morning calm."
Information applicable for Red Belts/2nd Gups:
Close Ready Stance C
Vertical Stance
Palm Pushing Block
Inner Forearm Side Front Block
Upward Punch
Knife-hand Downward Strike
Turning Kick
Side Elbow Thrust
Moa Junbi Sogi C
Soo Jik Sogi
Sonbadak Miro Makgi
An Palmok Yobap Makgi
Ollyo Jirugi
Sonkal Naeryo Taerigi
DoIIyo Chagi
Yop Palkup Tulgi
Pattern HWA-RANG (29):
The following points should be remembered:
1. L-Stance Upward Punch (Niunja Sogi Ollyo Jirugi): The fist reaches the eye level of the defender.
2. Vertical Stance Knife-Hand Downward Strike (Soo Jik Sogi Sonkal Naeryo Taerigi): The knife-hand
reaches the target in a circular motion. Keep the elbow straight at the moment of impact.
3. High Turning Kick (Nopunde DoIIyo Chagi): The attacking tool reaches the eye level of the
attacker.
4. L-Stance Obverse Punch (Niunja Sogi Baro Jirugi): The fist reaches the same level as the shoulder.
The right arm forms a parallel line with the left leg and vica-versa.
5. Close Stance Inner Forearm Side Front Block (Moa Sogi An Palmok Yobap Makgi): The fist reaches
the same level as the defender’s temple. The opposite outer forearm reaches the same level as the
defender’s lower abdomen.
Information applicable for Black Tags/1st Gups
Forearm Middle Front Block
X-Knife-hand Checking Block
Twin Palm upward Block
Jumping
Knife-hand High Front Strike
Flying side Piercing Kick
Reverse Knife-hand High
Middle Back Piercing Kick
Palmok Kaunde Ap Makgi
Kyocha Sonkal Momchau Makgi
Sang Sonbadak Ollyo Makgi
Twigi
Sonkal Nopunde Ap Taerigi
Twinyo Yopcha Jirugi
Front Strike Sonkal Dung Nopunde Ap Taerigi
Kaunde Dwitcha Jirugi
Pattern Choong-Moo (30):
The following points should be remembered:
1. Walking Stance Knife-Hand High Front Strike (Gunnun Sogi Sonkal Nopunde Ap Taerigi): The
fingertip reaches the eye level of the attacker. The body becomes full facing the opponent. The knifehand must stay at the centre of the attacker’s body.
2. Flying Side Piercing Kick (Twimyo Topcha Jirugi): The foot should be slightly lower than the
attacker’s hip.
3. Walking Stance Reverse Knife-Hand High Front Strike (Gunnun Sogi Sonkal Dung Nopunde Ap
Taerigi): The reverse knife-hand reaches the same level as the philtrum of the attacker. The body
becomes full facing the opponent. The reverse knife-hand must stay at the centre of the attacker’s body.
4. Middle Back Piercing Kick (Kaunde Dwitcha Jirugi): The foot reaches the same level as the
shoulder of the attacker. Keep the toes of the stationary foot pointed to the front. Footsword is the
attacking tool.
5. Sitting Stance Forearm Middle Front Block (Annun Sogi Palmok Kaunde Ap Makgi): The forearm
comes along the centre line. 6. Sitting Stance Back Fist High Side Strike (Annun Sogi Dung Joomuk
Nopunde Yop Taerigi): The back fist should be half facing the opponent.
7. L-Stance X-Knife-Hand Checking Block (Niunja Sogi Kyocha Sonkal Momchau Makgi): The
fingertip reaches the same level as the shoulder of the defender.
8. Walking Stance Twin Palm Upward Block (Gunnun Sogi Sang Sonbadak Ollyo Makgi): The
attacking tool reaches the target in a circular motion. The palms reach the same level as the elbows of
the defender.
Three Step Sparring
by Chris Quinn
Although not required in a grading, the formal three step is still a useful exercise for members in and
around the yellow belt grade, due to its utilisation of new and advanced techniques. Both attacker and
defender start from parallel ready stance. for every technique, the attacker first of all steps back on the
right leg, into walking stance low block. He then moves three times forwards into walking stance
middle punch. The defender steps backwards three times blocking the attackers punchs then finishes
with a counter attack. Both attacker and defender then step back into parallel ready stance, and the
defender becomes the attacker. Unlike the one step, the three step is generally done in a set order.
• In all cases, the attacker is assumed to step backwards starting on his right leg into low block,
walking stance and then step forwards three times into walking stance middle punch.
• The defender steps backwards three times starting on his right leg into walking stance, middle
inner forearm block. On the third step back, counter with a reverse punch.
• The defender steps backwards three times starting on his left leg into walking stance, middle
inner forearm block. On the third step back, after executing the block, step out to the left hand
side of your partner into sitting stance, double punch to your partners kidney.
• The defender steps backwards three times starting on his left leg into L-stance, single knife
hand block. After the third block, slide forward and execute knife hand strike into your
partners stomach.
• The defender steps back three times starting on his left leg into sitting stance, inward block.
After the third block, slide forward into L-stance, elbow strike into your partners stomach.
• The defender steps backwards twice starting on his right leg into L-stance knife hand guarding
block. Instead of stepping backwards and executing a third knife hand guarding block, pivot
on your right leg 90 degrees anti clockwise and execute single knife hand block with the left
hand to the punch and inward knife hand strke with the right hand to your partners neck.
• The defender steps backwards twice starting on his right leg into L-stance knife hand guarding
block. On the third step back, step back into walking stance and execute front snap kick off
the back leg followed by single knife hand block with the left hand to the punch and inward
knife hand strike with the right hand to the neck.
• The defender steps backwards twice starting on his right leg into L-stance knife hand guarding
block. On the third step back, step back into L-stance, guarding block, then execute side kick
off the back leg, landing into sitting stance, knife hand strike to your partners neck.
• The defender steps backwards twice starting on his right leg into L-stance knife hand guarding
block. On the third movement backwards, instead of stepping back, slide backwards so your
right leg is still in the lead. execute side kick off the back leg, landing into sitting stance, knife
hand strike.
• The defender steps backwards twice starting on his right leg into L-stance knife hand guarding
block. On the third movement, pivot on your back leg, 90 degrees clockwise into L-stance,
guarding block. execute turning kick with the bald of the foot, and land into sitting stance,
back fist strike to the temple.
* In the IUTF, this movement is not considered part of the three step. Therefore UCD students when
performing the three step exercise may leave this movement out. It is included here for completeness
sake.
Three Step Semi-Free Sparring (Ban Jayoo Matsogi)
by Chris Quinn
There is also another form of the three step known as three step semi free sparring. There are two types
of three step semi-free sparring, a set version and unset version. In the unset version there are no set
moves, the moves performed are entirely at the discretion of the two people taking part. Both attacker
and defender start off in fighting stances. The attacker shouts to indicate he is about to attcker, the
defender shouts back to indicate he is ready. The attacker then performs three attacking movements
forward. These do not have to be single techniques, a double side kick would for example be counted
as one attacking movememt. Usually the attacks are movements that would be performed one after
another in a real spar, for example axe kick, double punch, turning kick or back fist strike, side kick,
back side kick. The defender meanwhile steps backwards three times making the appropriate blocking
movements. The defender then performs a counter attack. Then the attacker and defender switch roles.
Set Version
by Orla McKenna
In the set version of the three step semi-free sparring, both attacker and defender start off in fighting
stance. The attacker shouts first, then the defender shouts to indicate he is ready. The attacker performs
three atacking movements forward. The defender moves backward and them performs a counter-attack.
The attacker and defender switch roles. The techniques are performed for both the left and right hand
sides. The semi-free sparring does not need to be performed in any particular order and is best
performed in a jumbled order of your choice. This is to show you know them all and are not just doing
the same techniques that your partner just did.
1. Attack:
Perform
4
side
kicks
hopping
in
off
the
lead
leg.
Counter: Perform a jumping back-fist to the head.
2. Attack: Perform a blitz (4 punches moving quickly towards your opponent)
Counter: Perform a jumping reverse punch (make sure to jump high enough to punch over
their punches.)
3. Attack: Perform a side kick, then keeping your leg in the air, perform a turning kick. Put the
leg down in front then execute a triple blitz (three punches moving towards your opponent).
Counter: Perform a jumping backfist. Make sure you move backwards when executing this
technique as the attacker will be moving quickly towards you.
4. Attack: Step up and perform a side kick off your lead leg. Follow up with a back side kick off
your other leg. Make sure you land exactly 180o. Perform a jumping backfist.
Counter: Perform a jumping side kick moving backwards.
5. Attack: with jab, cross combination, then execute turning kick (same side as cross) to follow
cross. Land your leg down in front then execute axe kick off your back leg. Land your leg
down
in
front
and
execute
jumping
back
side
kick.
Counter: Execute jumping back side kick.
Two Step Sparring
by Chris Quinn
Two step is a more advanced version of the three step. It is designed for the intermediate colour belt (ie
from green to blue belt) so they can learn new techniques and combinations, and offers a larger variety
of attacking and defending combinations then the three step. The same timing and distance between
partners that is used in the three step is used in the two step. In the IUTF, the two step is not part of the
grading requirements, so UCD students do not have to know this. However it is an extremely useful
exercise and it is recommended that UCD students take the time to learn it. It is included here for
completeness sake.
In all cases, the defender starts off in parallel ready stance and the attacker sarts off in walking stance,
low block with the right leg behind.
The attacker steps forward into walking stance, middle punch. The defender steps backward on his
right leg into walking stance, middle block. The attcker then steps forward into front kick, landing into
walking stance guarding block. The defender steps backward, executing low x-fist block, then counter
attacking with twin vertical punch.
The attacker steps forward into sitting stance, side punch. The defender steps backward on his right leg
into L-stance, inward palm block with the left hand. The attacker then executes turning kick off the
back leg, landing into L-stance guarding block. The defender steps back into L-stance, low block over
the lead leg then counter attacks by sliding forward into elbow strike.
The attacker steps forward into walking stance, front kick. The defender steps backward on his right
leg into walking stance, low X-fist block. The attacker then steps forward into walking stance, twin
vertial punch. The defender steps backward into wedging block, then counter attacks by grabbing his
partners shoulders and executing a knee strike into the stomach, pulling his partners head down as he
does so.
The attacker steps forward into walking stance, flat finger tip thrust. The defender steps backward on
his right leg into walking stance, knife hand rising block. The attacker then steps forward into side
kick, landing in a sitting stance. The defender steps backwards into L-stance, inward palm block,
knocking the side kick away to expose your partners back. The defender then counter attacks by
executing front kick, twin upset punch.
The attacker steps forward into walking stance, front kick. The defender steps backwards on his left leg
into walking stance, low X-fist block. The attacker then steps forward into walking stance, middle
punch. The defender pivots on his lead leg, stepping 90 degrees anti-clockwise into L-stance, guarding
block. The defender then counter-attacks by executing mid-section turning kick off the back leg,
followed by back knuckle striek to the temple.
The attacker steps forward into sitting stance, side punch. The defender steps backward on his right leg
into L-stance, inward palm block with the left hand. The attacker then steps forward executing head
height hooking kick. The defender steps backward into L-stance, executing high section outer forearm
block, then counter attacks with jumping knife hand strike to the back of the neck.
The attacker steps forward into L-stance, knife hand strike. The defender steps back on his left leg into
L-stance, single knife hand block. The attacker then steps forward, executing back side kick. the
defender steps backward into L-stance, low block then counter attacks with jumping knife hand strike
to the back of the neck.
One Step Sparring
by Orla McKenna
The attacker and the defender both start from parallel ready stance (narani jumbi sogi). The attacker
shouts first, then the defender shouts to indicate they are ready. The attacker steps forward into walking
stance obverse punch. This is performed first on the right side then on the left side. When the defender
has finished defending they return to parallel ready stance. Then the attacker returns to parallel ready
stance. The defender performs the same one step for both sides. Then the attacker and defender swop
roles. This continues until all have been performed. The one step does not need to be performed in any
particular order and is best performed in a jumbled order of your choice. This is to show that you know
them all and are not doing the same one as your partner just did.
The following is the syllabus for the one step on the right side (i.e. the attacker is punching with their
right hand). For the left side perform the mirror image.
Crescent kick with left leg (anticlockwise/outwards), front kick with right leg, leaving your leg in the
air, execute a turning kick.
Crescent kick with right leg (clockwise/inwards). Land right leg beside left leg (to ensure that you have
enough space to execute the backside kick), backside kick with left leg. Land in L-stance knife hand
strike.
Step into L-stance (left leg in front), execute palm upward block with left hand. Front kick with left leg.
Place foot on the ground and execute jump turning kick with right leg (make sure you jump off both
legs).
Slide out to right side in L-stance forearm guarding block (right leg behind). Execute jump backside
kick with right leg. Land in L-stance forearm guarding block.
Slide out to left side in L-stance (right leg in front). Execute midsection knife hand block with right
hand. Consecutive side kick with right leg (midsection, high section). Land in L-stance knife hand
strike (with right hand).
Step forward with right leg into sitting stance outer forearm block with right hand. Sine wave; execute
knife hand strike to neck with right hand followed by a sidekick with right leg (jump back as you kick
or step back and kick).
Slide to right into sitting stance with left leg behind, sidekick with right leg. Land in walking stance
reverse punch.
Note: There is also a version of the one step which is not set. In this version of the exercise, the attacker
steps forward with a punch. The defender then counters with just about any combination of techniques
that makes sense. Punch, kicks, throws and sweeps or any combination of them are all acceptable. this
version of the one step should only be performed b more advanced members of the class in association
with self-defense techniques, where they can be tought practical techniques and can also come up with
their
own
and
try
them
out.
Grading Tips and Requirements
•
When your name is called out, stand up, shout "Here Sir!", bow, and run up to your place.
Dont just walk up as that implies lazyness and a less than enthuastic attitude.
•
When doing exercises, always make sure to exhale and to keep in time with the rest of the
group. Remember if you are faster or slower than the rest of your group then the examiners
attention will be focussed on you, and he will have more opportunity to spot your mistakes.
Remember - Majority Rules, stick with the rest of your group.
•
Always perform your techniques with the maximum amount of power possible - to do
otherwise indicates lack of effort and you will be marked down.
•
If you are in the middle of your pattern and you suddenly forget the next move, do not stand to
the side and sit out the whole pattern. Rather try and join in with the rest of your group at the
next possible move. Your examiner can understand forgetting a move but will have to mark
you down more for not knowing the entire pattern. Alternatively - stop, take a deep breath,
and start the pattern again.
•
When at ease, stand straight with both hands behind your back. Do not fidget, fix your hair,
start humming a tune, look around you or adjust your clothing or anything like that, just look
straight ahead with your hands behind your back.
•
If you are asked a question which you cannot remember the answer to (or you dont know) do
NOT say you dont know - rather say "I`m sorry sir, but I can`t remember." Gradings can be
stressful and cause you to forget things - the examiner knows this.
•
When dismissed, bow, shout "Tae Kwon! Thank you sir!" and fall off to the back of the hall to
receive your well earned applause.
Grading Requirements
White Belt grading to Yellow Tag Requirements
• Saja Jiruki A and B
• Front rising kick
• Sitting stance, middle punch (no sine wave)
• Basic combinations up and down the floor - low block, walking stance etc.
• Basic theory, instructors name, etc.
Yellow Belt grading to Green Tag Requirements
• Dan Gun, Chon Ji.
• Semi-Free Sparring (with or with out counter attack).
• Combinations - anything form the patterns covered plus sine-wave.
• Theory: stances,names of all moves in pattern;english and korean, instructors name (Mr, Ms,
Mrs, etc)
• Sitting stance punch, possibly front rising kick.
Green Tag grading to Green Belt Requirements
• Do-San, Dan Gun, Chon Ji.
• Break, front snap kick (mid-section).
• Combinations - all moves in pattern.
• Semi free sparring.
• Free sparring(full pads).
• Theory - more technical questions - eg - twin forearm block - inner or outer forearm? 2nd last
moves of pattern?? How many strikes do you know??
• Practice the turn into back fist until it is perfect, also make sure the timing is correct for the
front kick double punch!!
Green Belt grading to Blue Tag Requirements
• Won-hyo and all the previous patterns
• Combinations (practise circular block and FGB).
• Breaking-side kick (leg of choice usually).
• Semi-free sparring.
• Free sparring.
• Theory - meaning of pattern, Korean, "practical" applications of techniques learned.
Blue Tag grading to Blue Belt Requirements
• All patterns up to and including Yul-gok.
• Combinations (need to be comfortable with movements from previous pattern also)
• Theory.
• Semi and free sparring.
• Practise the jump in Yul-gok and also the timing.
Red Tag grading to Red Belt Requirements
• Combinations.
• All patterns but Joong Gun and Toi-Gye are both marked seperate from the other patterns.
• Semi-free sparring.
• Free sparring.
• Theory - good knowledge of the "Theory of Power" at this stage- make sure you are up to date
with all the Korean terminology.
• Important things to prepare
o The jump in Toi-Gye.
o The ending of Toi-Gye - don`t do it too fast - the circular blocks are quick but in
between keep it slow
o All your patterns - going for red belt is a very big grading!
o Lots of jump kicks (jump turning kick and jump back side-kick).
o The oath - you may be senior grade