Who is the founder of Taekwon do?
Who is the founder of Tae Kwon Do? General Choi Hong-Hi is widely acknowledged as the founder of Taekwondo. He is often referred to as the “Founder of Taekwon-Do.” Choi is highly regarded within the Taekwondo community, especially by organisations associated with the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) he established. He played a pivotal role in the development and international spread of Taekwondo.
Born on November 9, 1918, in the Hwa Dae, Myong Chung District of South Korea, Choi’s early life was marked by a strong will and determination. He was expelled from school at the age of 12 for leading a protest against the Japanese occupation of Korea. His martial arts journey contributed significantly to the development of Taekwondo, blending his martial arts skills with his philosophical and educational ideas.
The name “tae kwon do” was officially adopted for this martial art in 1955, a decision significantly influenced by Choi. He submitted this name, underlining his crucial role in formalising martial arts. Choi also played a key role in promoting Taekwondo within the South Korean army, believing that a uniquely Korean martial art should be taught to troops. As a martial artist, Choi Hong Hi was recognised as one of the greatest of the 20th century, and his contributions have left a lasting impact on Taekwondo as both a physical discipline and a cultural phenomenon. The South Korean government also significantly promoted Taekwondo as a national sport to bolster its international image and anti-communist stance.
Early Life and Career
Choi Hong Hi was born on November 9, 1918, in Hwa Dae, Myŏngch’ŏn County, North Korea, when the country was under Japanese rule. As a frail and sickly child, his father encouraged him to study calligraphy and Chinese characters to improve both his physical and mental health. However, Choi’s interest soon gravitated towards martial arts. He began his training in Taek Kyon, an ancient Korean art of foot fighting, under the guidance of Master Han Il Dong. This early exposure to Korean martial arts laid the foundation for his future endeavours.
In 1938, Choi moved to Japan to further his education. While studying at Chuo University, he also trained in Shotokan Karate under Kim Hyun-Soo, eventually earning his 1st dan rank. His time in Japan was pivotal, as it broadened his martial arts knowledge and skills. After graduating in 1943, Choi taught karate at the Tokyo YMCA before being conscripted into the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II. These experiences in martial arts and military service significantly shaped his vision for a unique Korean martial art.
Development of Taekwon-Do
Choi Hong Hi’s extensive experience in the Korean Army and his exposure to various martial arts styles, including Taek Kyon and Shotokan Karate, was instrumental in the development of Taekwon-Do. In 1946, Choi began teaching Korean martial arts under the Tang Su Do label to soldiers under his command. His goal was to create a martial art that was distinctly Korean, promoting physical fitness, mental discipline, and moral character.
In 1954, Choi founded the Oh Do Kwan, or “Gym of My Way,” where he trained the cadre instructors for the entire military. This institution became a breeding ground for the development of Taekwon-Do. Choi’s vision was to establish a martial art that was effective in combat and rich in cultural heritage. He developed 26 patterns, or tuls, each named after great Korean patriots or significant historical and cultural events. These patterns became a cornerstone of Taekwon-Do, embodying the spirit and philosophy of the Korean people.
Legacy and Impact
General Choi Hong Hi’s legacy in martial arts is profound and far-reaching. Widely regarded as the “Founder of Taekwon-Do,” Choi is credited with the popular rise of martial arts globally. In 1966, he founded the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF), which played a crucial role in promoting Taekwon-Do as a unified system of martial arts. Through the ITF, Choi emphasises the benefits of Taekwondo for physical fitness, mental discipline, and moral character.
Choi’s efforts extended beyond South Korea, leading to the introduction of Taekwon-Do in North Korea, a move that has been controversial. Despite the political complexities, Choi’s contributions to the development and dissemination of Taekwon-Do have been recognised worldwide. His vision and dedication have left an indelible mark on the history of martial arts, making him one of the most influential figures in this field.
