Taekwondo Glossary

Taekwondo uses the Korean language in its teachings. Every movement and every block or attack has its own name, however, as the art is so global the same movements have aquired different names. This could be confusing. Of course, it may sound trivial to learn these Korean names at an initial stage, but as one proceeds through the grades learning them is a way to show respect for the art and understanding the cultural aspect of Taekwondo. Here is a list of some basic movements, found in the three first poomsae, and some of the commonly used phrases:

(The following Korean translations are are written as they are pronounced in Western alphabetical letters.)

Instructions
Attention	Charyeeoh
Bow	Kyungye
Ready Position	Chumbi
About face	Duiro Dora

 

Stances
Short Step	Ap Sogui
Long Step	Ap Kubi
Low	Are
Middle	Momtong
High	Olgul

 

Kicks
Front Kick	Ap Chagui
45 degree kick	Bandal Chagui
Turning Kick	Dollyo Chagui
Side Kick	Yop Chagui
Back Kick	Tuit Chagui

 

Blocks
Low block (same hand & leg)	Are Makki
Middle block (same hand & leg)	Momtong Makki
Middle block 2 (opposite hand & leg)	Momtong An Makki
High block (same hand & leg)	Olgul Makki

 

Attacks
Straight punch to chest	Monton Jirugui
Straight punch to nose	Olgul Jirugui

 

Numbers
One	Hana
Two	Dool
Three	Set
Four	Net
Five	Tasut
Six	Yausut
Seven	Ilgope
Eight	Yaudul
Nine	Ahope
Ten	Yaul