The philosophy of WTF Taekwondo closely follows the movements of human beings and their activities. The ancient Korean martial principles promoted the fusion of mind, body and life. The life of a human being consists of numerous movements and changes. With these principles in mind, it is possible to promote Taekwondo as a philosophy in itself. In order to understand and learn this philosophy, we must involve ourselves in practicing Taekwondo and the end result will be an improved quality of life. The philosophy of Sam Jae, which is the three elements and Eum/Yang (negative force/positive force) are the main principles. The three elements (Sam Jae) consist of In (man), Ji (earth) and Chon (earth). This principle is said to represent the changes and transformations that occur within the world that we live in.

The ‘Book of Changes’ speaks of the ‘Eight Trigrams for Divination’ (pictured right). This is made up of Sam Jae and the interactions between Eum and Yang. Korea and other oriental countries closely follow this philosophy. This spiritual aspect of the philosophy of Taekwondo will allow an individual to truly explore the art and gain a deep understanding of other meanings in life. The idea that every entity has an opposite i.e. Eum and Yang is manifested in many of the patterns within WTF Taekwondo.

Taegeuk which means ‘the great absolute’ proposes that Eum and Yang are ultimately the same thing. By using these principles, the individual develops an ability to find solutions to problems and adapt to challenging situations, thereby developing a deeper understanding of life.

The indigenous Han tribe documented thought processes that have lasted through the decades and these ideas form key morals of Taekwondo. They originate from Tangun Chosun’s foundation of Korea. The story follows that Hwan Wung was a son of heaven and he established Baedal (the earliest name of Korea). His purpose for the foundations of Korea followed the principles of Hongik Ingan and Jaese Ihwa. Hongik Ingan is an idea that promotes the care and well being of the human race. Taekwondo uses this to promote the development of a more just and peaceful world and reduce harmful behaviours. Jaese Ihwa suggests that the ways of the world are educated according to the principles of heaven. It promotes the theory that mankind can be educated with the lessons and behaviours of a heavenly world via correct development with the spirit of Taekwondo. This belief was conveyed through to the Hwarangdo and eventually incorporated into the Taekwondo philosophy of the modern day.

These principles build the Taekwondo philosophy or "spirit" (five tenets and creed/oath):

Courtesy (Ye Ui)

Integrity (Yeom Chi)

Perseverance (In Nae)

Self Control (Geuk Gi)

Indomitable spirit (Baekjeol Bulgul)

The oath is as follows:

1) To observe the tenets of Taekwondo

2) To respect the instructor and seniors

3) To never misuse Taekwondo

4) To be a champion of freedom and justice

5) To build a more peaceful world