Philosophy

By Master David Allerton (5th Dan)

It is important for new students to learn and appreciate the philosophy behind their chosen art . In Tang Soo Do there is much to be proud of, in particular, the application of the Sip Sam Seh (13 ancient influences) together with hyungs not found in any other style such as the Chil Sung and Yuk Ro series. We also place great emphasis on the meaning of the term “Pyung Ahn” so that constant training provides benefits not only in personal protection but also in everyday life. Therefore, development of the character requires just as much attention as the pursuit of perfect technique.

To understand something of Tang Soo Do philosophy and history it is helpful to look at the Moo Duk Kwan emblem. The one shown celebrates 60 years from the founding of the school.

Laurel leaves feature prominently since they stand for achievement , often used in ancient Greek Olympiads. The 14 leaves on each side represent the 14 provinces of Korea. The 6 red berries stand for the 6 continents and the Yang element. The fist means justice, honour and strength. The blue scroll at the base is the Um element and signifies knowledge. Overall it indicates the spread of Moo Duk Kwan ethics across the globe to promote world unity.

The writing to the left reads “Soo” and to the right “Bahk”. Over the years it has been changed by different bodies and you can find examples which read “Hwa and Soo”; “Tang and Soo” ; “Tae and Kwon”. There is in fact a large following of Taekwondo students resulting from Moo Duk Kwan members who joined the unification process many years ago. Soo Bahk is the term used to describe the ancient martial art of Korea and the Association now headed by the founders son, GrandMaster Hwang, Hyun Chul.

The calligraphy in the centre represents Moo or military but can be interpreted to mean “prevent conflict”. This exemplifies the paradox of martial art in that what appears on the outside to be violent is in reality a vehicle for peace.

My own school uses the Um/Yang to symbolise harmony and balance in addition to Pyung Ahn for peace and security. I am always interested to hear more on Tang Soo Do philosophy so if there is anything particular to your school or emblem then please email me.

The belt colour system in Tang Soo Do follows the changing of the seasons from a students potential which remains hidden in winter through the emergence of new growth in spring, flourishing in summer and maturing in autumn. The midnight blue (dan belt) and Master belt have a special significance. This colour denotes respect and humility. It also refers to the fact that we must all strive to progress further in our training (black would mean the end of things). Nevertheless, I have often heard it referred to as a “black belt” which can give rise to misunderstandings. Many years ago when GrandMaster Hwang Kee made a visit to the U.S. to review standards he was horrified to find that midnight blue belts had been replaced by black. He immediately ordered all dan grades to revert to the original colour. The horizontal red stripe through the centre of the Master belt refers to the element Yang or hardness while the midnight blue on the outside denotes Um or softness. The philosophy here is to refrain from aggressive behaviour and display a calm outward appearance. The hard interior should always be kept hidden behind a humble demeanor, however, if it were ever needed then we must prevail. Midnight blue refers to knowledge and wisdom reminding us that the martial artist should also be a scholar. Another historical and unique feature is the Kwan Jeok Bu which is the register of Dan seniority starting with the very first Moo Duk Kwan cho dan, Mr Kim, Un Chang in 1947.

GrandMaster Hwang Kee promoted Tang Soo Do as a “living art”. Therefore, each students “Ryu Pa” or self development is an important progression much as we learn from our parents before venturing into the world to find our own way. KJN Hwang Kee himself studied the scientific application of power and in particular use of the hip extension in kicking. This in turn was followed by many other styles.

Tang Soo Do (Soo Bahk Do) is a traditional martial art taking many movements from the Moo Yei Do Bo Tong Ji (1790) military manual which chronicled techniques from many centuries ago. Even the Tang Soo Do uniform with the cross over trim can be seen on paintings from the 4th century Ko Ku Ryo dynasty.

Yours in Tang Soo !