Traditional Tae Kwon Do

Tae Kwon Do is the most popular Korean martial art. It was officially founded by General Choi in 1955. Since then Tae Kwon Do has exploded in popularity and is practiced all around the world. In general, the art focuses on kicks thrown from a mobile stance. Training also consists of a variety of hand striking techniques and blocks, but usually will not emphasize grappling.

Tae - To kick or to smash with the foot

Kwon - To punch or to strike with the hand

Do - The way or art of

Literally translated, Tae Kwon Do means "The way of kicking and punching."

Sport Tae Kwon Do

In 2000 Tae Kwon Do was recognized as an official olympic event. A description and list of rules for olympic Tae Kwon Do can be found here.
Tenets

The tenets of Tae Kwon Do reflect that Tae Kwon Do is not only a physical discipline, but also a mental one. They are:
1. Courtesy
2. Integrity
3. Perseverance
4. Self Control
5. Indomitable Spirit

Basic Terminology

One - Hana
Two - Duel
Three - Set
Four - Net
Five - Dosot
Six - Yosot
Seven - Elgub
Eight - Yo Dol
Nine - Ahop
Ten- Yol

"Break" (stop) - Kalyeo
"Continue Fight" command - Kyesok
"Prepare" command - Junbi
"Return to Original Position" - Baro
"Stand at Attention" - Cha-ryot
Degree;Black Belt Rank - Dan
Belt - Dhee
Bow - Kyun Ye
Class; Student Rank Level - Gup
Couterkick - Bato Chagi
Deduction Penalty - Gam-jeom
Front Kick - Ahp chagi
Kick - Chagi
Master - Sabomnim
Movement Forms - Poomse
Round Kick - Dolryo Chagi
Side Block - Yop Maggi
Side Kick - Yop Chagi
Sparring - Gyoroogi
Uniform - Dobok
Warning - Kyonggo