The Rich Heritage of Tang Soo Do
Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art with a fascinating history that spans thousands of years, combining ancient Korean fighting traditions with influences from Chinese martial arts and modern developments.
Ancient Origins
The roots of Tang Soo Do can be traced back over 2,000 years to the Three Kingdoms period of Korea (37 BCE – 668 CE). During this era, the Hwa Rang warriors of the Silla Kingdom practiced martial arts as part of their training. These warriors were renowned for their discipline, honor, and combat skills, which laid the foundation for Korean martial arts traditions.
The Birth of Modern Tang Soo Do
Modern Tang Soo Do was founded by Grandmaster Hwang Kee on November 9, 1945, just after Korea’s liberation from Japanese occupation. Hwang Kee established the Moo Duk Kwan (Institute of Martial Virtue) in Seoul, creating a comprehensive martial arts system that honored traditional Korean fighting methods while incorporating elements from Chinese martial arts, particularly those documented in the Muyedobotongji, an ancient Korean martial arts manual.
Influences and Development
During the Japanese occupation of Korea (1910-1945), the practice of Korean martial arts was suppressed. Many Koreans, including Hwang Kee, studied martial arts from various sources:
• Traditional Korean Subak and Taekkyon techniques
• Chinese martial arts, particularly Northern Chinese styles
• Japanese Karate influences introduced during the occupation
• Ancient Korean military arts documented in historical texts
After liberation, Hwang Kee synthesized these diverse influences into Tang Soo Do, emphasizing strong kicks, hand strikes, forms (hyung), and philosophical principles rooted in Korean culture.
Global Expansion
Tang Soo Do began spreading internationally in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly to the United States through Korean immigrants and American military personnel who trained in Korea. The art gained recognition for its effective techniques, emphasis on character development, and beautiful, powerful forms.
Today, Tang Soo Do continues to thrive worldwide, maintaining its traditional values while adapting to modern training methods. The art emphasizes:
• Physical fitness and self-defense skills
• Mental discipline and focus
• Respect for oneself and others
• Continuous personal growth
• Preservation of Korean martial arts heritage
The Philosophy
Tang Soo Do is more than just physical techniques – it embodies the Korean concepts of martial virtue (Moo Duk) and the warrior spirit. Practitioners strive to develop both body and mind, following the Hwa Rang Do principles of loyalty, respect, courage, and justice.
Through dedicated practice, students of Tang Soo Do connect with centuries of Korean martial arts tradition while developing the skills and character needed to face modern challenges.
