Literally translated from the Korean language, Tae means "to kick" or "to strike with the foot," Kwon means "fist" or "to strike with a hand," and Do means "discipline" or "art." The three words together translate to "the art of kicking or punching," suggesting that unarmed combat is indeed an art as well as a necessity at times. Present day Tae Kwon Do is a unique combination of techniques, including the quick, straight-lined movements typical of Japanese martial arts and the flowing, circular movements of most Chinese styles. What makes Tae Kwon Do stand apart from the others is the prominent use of leg and kicking techniques.

The earliest known records relating to Tae Kwon Do date from aroun 50 B.C. Paintings of Taek Kyon (the earliest form of Tae Kwon Do) were found on the ceiling of a royal tomb. They depict unarmed fighters using techniques practically identical to those used in today's Tae Kwon Do.

Over the centuries, Tae Kwon Do was used as a form of discipline and training for various groups of young people. Along with the movements and physical aspects of the sport, they learned that loyalty to one's family and friends and respect for elders were important in life.

In 1909 Japan invaded Korea, staying as an occupation force for the next 36 years. The Japanese commander in residence in Korea declared an official ban on the practice of all military arts for native Koreans. As a result, the Koreans were even more interested in studying Tae Kwon Do, and it became more popular than ever before. Those who wanted to learn the art were forced to do so in secret for fear of punishment by the Japanese. During this time, Tae Kwon Do was refined and perfected and enjoyed immense popularity among Koreans.

The World Tae Kwon Do Federation was established in 1973. This organization has helped further the development of the sport. Tae Kwon Do was given demonstration-sport status at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea as well as the 1992 Barcelona, Spain, Olympics. Tae Kwon Do was given full medal status for the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, Australia.

Today, Tae Kwon Do is the most widely practiced martial art in the entire world. Over 30 million people practice in at least 163 countries. It is both a sport and an art that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and ability levels.