The Beauty of Taekwondo [Photo Essay Contest]
Published: 08 Dec. 2023, 10:53
Updated: 08 Dec. 2023, 15:16
The Korea JoongAng Daily hosted its first photo essay contest for elementary, middle and high school students on the theme: “Promote the beauty of Korea to foreign countries." The contest ran from October to November. Photos containing scenes of traditional culture, family love, places to see and tasty treats in Korea were submitted for the contest.
Moon, Yu-chan from Korea International School, Jeju Campus won the participation prize in the middle school category for this photo essay.
Taekwondo, unlike many martial arts primarily focused on self-defense, embodies a deep spiritual purpose. This martial art transcends simple physical discipline, evolving into a form of moving meditation that encapsulates the most cherished ideals of Korean culture. In modern-day South Korea, Taekwondo dojangs (training halls) are more than mere training grounds. They are sanctuaries where body, mind, and spirit unite in harmony. Anchored in the Five Tenets–courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit–Taekwondo reflects the virtues of Confucianism, a philosophy rooted in humanism and respect. In these sacred spaces, practitioners of all ages glide across the mat, moving with graceful precision. Their kicks slice through the air, and their strikes are more than physical acts, but expressions of a quest for strength and inner peace. The air is thick with quiet, broken only by the rhythmic thuds of feet and the gentle rustle of doboks (uniforms). Many Korean parents, driven by their profound respect for these principles, entrust their children to Taekwondo masters, seeking to imbue them with values of respect, courtesy, and overall well-being that have been passed down through generations.
Danny T. Nguyen’s journey with Taekwondo exemplifies its impact beyond physical discipline. Becoming a father at 17, Danny was thrust into a turbulent period filled with uncertainties. During this time, Taekwondo became his guiding light. The catalyst for his venture into Taekwondo was deeply personal. Witnessing his son’s struggle with bullying brought back memories of his own past challenges. , an issue resonating with his own familial history. Determined to shield his child from similar emotional scars, Danny embraced the martial art’s principles of perseverance and indomitable spirit, which not only helped him empower his son but also heal past wounds. This path brought remarkable changes to both father and son, beyond the mere acquisition of skills and belts. Over the years, the philosophy of Taekwondo seeped into every facet of Danny’s life. This was particularly evident in his professional growth as a clinician, where the tenacity and resilience gained in the dojang became invaluable in addressing patient challenges. From 2016 to now, Danny’s evolution was beyond mere acquisition of skills and belts, but a journey of profound mental, physical, and emotional growth. His story embodies the beauty of Taekwondo, showcasing how its teachings transcend the realm of combat, shaping individuals into better human beings.
Anyone who has experienced the captivating art of Taekwondo is bound to be struck by its elegance and discipline. This reaction was famously shared by South Korean President Syngman Rhee in the 1950s, during a demonstration by a soldier. Admiring Taekwondo’s grace and power, Rhee commanded this martial art’s integration into military training. In 1966, the collaborative efforts of Korea’s five premier martial arts schools led to the founding of the International Taekwondo Federation (ITF), elevating the martial art’s global stature. Taekwondo rapidly spread worldwide, captivating international audiences with its unique blend of physical prowess and philosophical depth. Despite challenges, such as the dissolution of ITF, the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) emerged, further shaping Taekwondo’s modern style. The WTF continued to promote Taekwondo globally, culminating in its recognition as an Olympic sport. The underlying philosophy of Taekwondo resonates universally across diverse cultures and countries. By transcending cultural and linguistic barriers, Taekwondo serves as a global language of discipline and integrity, capable of uniting people across the world.
Taekwondo, rooted in centuries-old traditions, challenges the modern obsession with instant gratification, emphasizing the importance of long-term mastery. In this fast-paced world, this martial art serves as a reminder that true skill and character are cultivated over time through perseverance. More than just a physical discipline, Taekwondo offers a comprehensive path of self-improvement. Evolving beyond the conventional boundaries of a martial art, it nurtures mental resilience, ethical living, and a deeper understanding of oneself.
By Moon, Yu-chan, Korea International School, Jeju Campus
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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