Tenets of Taekwon-Do

The Five Tenets of Taekwon-Do: Our Code of Conduct

In Taekwon-Do, we are guided by five fundamental tenets. These are not just rules for the dojang, but principles for life. As the Founder of Taekwon-Do explained, our success in this art depends on how we implement these tenets to build a noble character and a more harmonious society. They are the foundation upon which a true martial artist is built.

Courtesy (Ye Ui): 

To develop a spirit of politeness, humility, and mutual respect.

Courtesy is the ultimate standard required to create a community of respect and justice. It is the ability to be polite to one another, to be ashamed of our own vices before judging others, and to handle all matters with fairness and sincerity.

• In the Dojang: We bow to distinguish instructor from student and senior from junior. We listen attentively and encourage our partners, promoting a spirit of mutual support.

• In Daily Life: We are polite and respectful to all. We practice humility, respect the possessions of others, and strive to be fair and sincere in our words and actions.

Integrity (Yom Chi)

To be honest with others and yourself, and to know right from wrong.

The Founder taught that a person of integrity can not only define right from wrong but also has the conscience to feel guilt and take responsibility for their mistakes. It is a commitment to truthfulness, where your actions consistently live up to your words.

• In the Dojang: Integrity is performing every technique with your best effort, even when no one is watching. It means never misrepresenting your skills or "fixing" a board break to appear more skillful than you are.

• In Daily Life: We are truthful and own our mistakes without making excuses. We do not seek rewards we haven't earned or promote ourselves for materialistic gain.

Perseverance (In Nae)

To set a goal and proceed with unwavering patience and persistence.

An old Oriental saying states, “Patience leads to virtue.” To achieve any goal, whether it is mastering a difficult technique or succeeding in life, one must persevere through every difficulty. The Founder drew inspiration from the story of Robert Bruce, who learned this lesson from a spider’s persistent efforts. This is the secret to becoming a leader in Taekwon-Do.

• In the Dojang: We practice a difficult pattern until it becomes second nature. We push through fatigue and overcome the frustration of not getting it right the first time.

• In Daily Life: We face challenges at school or work with the patience to see them through. We understand that great success is rarely achieved without overcoming setbacks.

Self-Control (Guk Gi)

To have command over your mind, body, and emotions.

This tenet is critically important both inside and outside the dojang. In sparring, a loss of self-control can be dangerous. In life, it is the ability to live and work within your capabilities and to remain calm under pressure. As the philosopher Lao-Tzu said, "The one who wins over oneself is stronger than the one who wins over someone else."

• In the Dojang: We control our power and emotions during sparring to ensure our partners remain safe. We maintain focus even when tired or frustrated.

• In Daily Life: We think before we act or speak. We remain centered in stressful situations and work to manage our emotions in a way that is constructive, not destructive.

Indomitable Spirit (Baekjul Boolgool)

To stand for justice and your principles, with courage, against any odds.

An indomitable spirit is shown when a courageous person is pitted against overwhelming adversity. A serious student of Taekwon-Do, if confronted with injustice, will deal with it without any fear or hesitation, regardless of the number of opponents. As Confucius declared, “It is an act of cowardice to fail to speak out against injustice.”

• In the Dojang: We face a challenging promotion test or a higher-ranking opponent with confidence and unwavering spirit, regardless of the outcome.

• In Daily Life: We stand up for what is right and defend those who cannot defend themselves. We have the courage to say no to negative influences and live by our principles.

Our Ultimate Goal

These five tenets guide our actions and ensure that the skills learned in Taekwon-Do are used responsibly. Our techniques are for self-defence and the protection of others, to be used only as a last resort. By living these values, students of Lionheart Martial Arts are expected to be model citizens, dedicated to building a better, more peaceful community in Blackfalds and beyond.