Tang Soo Do

Tang soo do is a Korean martial art that is based on Japanese karate. The name is translated as tang-"the Tang dynasty of China," soo-"fist," and do- "way of life." Taken together, it translates as "the martial way of life from China." Tang soo do was created by Hwang Kee, who originally called it hwasoodo. In Korea, Hwang Kee's art is no longer called Tang soo do, but is now called soobakdo.

Tang soo do is quite similar to taekwondo, but is practiced along more traditional guidelines. It teaches empty hand and foot fighting as well as weapon fighting. It is not considered to be a sport, however, but a classic martial art. Its purpose is to develop every aspect of the self, in order to create a mature individual who integrates his intellect, body, emotions, and spirit.

Tang soo do practitioners show their growth in mastering their art with a belt system. Students progress through various colors of belts, beginning with white and ending in black, each belt standing for a specific stage of achievement. The belts also represent the cycle of the seasons, as that which is born grows and reaches maturity.

The uniform, or "Do Bohk," consists of a white long sleeved jacket which is held closed by the belt, and a pair of white, loosely fitting pants.

Tang soo do teaches not only physical techniques, but also trains practitioners in the "do"-way of life, through the practice of five virtues: "in"- humanity; "ui"- righteousness; "yie"- etiquette; "ji"- wisdom; and "shin"- trust. When practitioners reach the ultimate level of do, they are said to live in perfect harmony with the laws of nature.

Practitioners also follow the five Tang soo do codes: loyalty to country; obedience to parents; honor to friendship; no retreat in battle; and in fighting choose with sense and honor.