The cornerstone of Taekwon-do is its philosophy. It is a vast topic. Here is a brief look at the main aspects:

All Taekwon-do students swear an oath never to misuse the martial art, to respect others, to obey the tenets, to support freedom and justice and to build a more peaceful world.

Tae Kwon-do is about moral and spiritual standards, continuous personal development throughout life and teaches us that the only way in which man can become immortal is to leave a spiritual legacy that benefits mankind.

What is a Tenet?

A tenet is a belief or principle by which we should aim to achieve and live by. The tenets of Taekwon-Do should serve as a guide for all serious students of the art.

Courtesy (Ye Ui) - It is proper that all people have good manners, are polite, respectful and courteous to one another.

Indomitable Spirit (Beakjul Boolgool) - This is the inner spirit a person has. A Spirit that produces courage at a time of injustice to deal with the perpetrators regardless of who or what they may be.

Self Control (Guk Gi) - This is the ability to exercise control over ones actions and emotions. The inability to live and work without losing one's temper shows lack of self-control and the loss of dignity.

Perseverance (In Nae) - The determination to complete, with the firm belief that what you are doing is right, what has been started and overcoming difficulties along the way. It must be remembered that no one said Taekwon-Do would be easy, and no true martial artist was born a black belt or a master, only perseverance helps achieve these goals.

Integrity (Yom Chi) - This is the quality of being honest. A person with high integrity is said to be completely just and trustworthy.

The International Taekwon-do Oath

I shall observe the tenets of Taekwon-do

I shall respect the instructor and seniors

I shall never misuse Taekwon-do

I shall be a champion of freedom and justice

I shall build a more peaceful world

"The eternal teacher teaches with body when young, with words when old and by moral concept even after death."

Meaning of the term "Taekwon-do"

The term “Taekwon-do” literally translates into the following three parts:
TAE - Meaning to smash or destroy with the foot
KWON - Meaning to strike with the hand- chiefly the fist.
DO – Meaning the art or way. Therefore the entire translation of “Taekwon-do” is open to a little interpretation; the most common examples being.

“The way of the hand and foot” (This is probably the most accurate) or “The art of kicking and punching”