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.)