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The origin of Taekwondo dates as far back as the existence of man himself on earth. With the passage of time, it had been streamlined and gradually formalized, then developed into a positive and perfect level due to the necessity for social life as simple human life became more complex and diversified.
Although Taekwondo had survived through the long and adverse periods of Korean history as a component part of traditional culture, only a few murals in the underground chambers of Tumuli depicting Taekwondo were found.
There are evidences of Taekwondo in the murals of the Kakjeochong, Mooyongchong and Samsilchong Tombs of the Kogooryo era. The tumuli of this era located at the former capital of the kingdom, present murals that are undeniable evidence of the existence of Taekwondo in that period. The murals show the original features of Taekwondo.
Twenty years after the Kogooryo era, the Silva Dynasty was founded. The warriors of Silva enjoyed various sports including archery, hunting and Taekwondo.
Other historic documents prove that there were also martial arts called by different names in the territories of Silva, Kogooryo and Baekje.
The entire nation of Baekje enjoyed the sports of horse riding, archery and Taekwondo. In fact, the whole populace were warriors well trained in martial arts.
The Baekje nation was eventually conquered by Koryo where Taekwondo was widely propagated as a national sport.
As far as Taekwondo is concerned, Korea is the master country. Historically, authentic records of Taekwondo illustrate a large part of the Korean nation. Handed through the Kogooryo, Silla, Baekje and Koryo, it was deeply rooted in the Joseon Dynasty* era and scientifically systematized.
After the decline of the Joseon Dynasty, the Japanese invaded Korea and the Taekwondo devotees often led the struggle against the invaders.
Today, modern Taekwondo stresses on the scientific mobilization of human force and its application; the most important factors of which are stability, support, balance, elasticity, agility and flexibility as well as mental and nervous concentration.
The basic factor for effective mobilization of physical force depends upon the posture of a person as a balanced and secure posture does not allow swift attack. In Taekwondo, the human body should be placed in an unstable state to move the center quickly in order to add speed to the body, fists and feet. The ability to control the nerves and respiration is also vital to the mastery of Taekwondo.
Adapted from WTF Taekwondo Poomse
*
When Korea was under the rule of Japanese imperialism, the Japanese government
renamed "Joseon Dynasty" into "Yi Dynasty" for denying it's orthodoxy.
(information submitted by:
silverjackal@hanmail.net )