General overview of grades

Absolute beginner. First contact with Taekwondo, practicing stances (Seogi) and dojang ethics.

White signifies innocence. The student has no previous knowledge of Taekwondo.

Basics of first forms (Taegeuk Il Jang). Mastering the front kick (Ap Chagi).

First grains of the Korean sun (yellow) begin to fall into a pure mind (white).

Taegeuk Yi Jang (Lake/Joy). Roundhouse kicks (Dollyo Chagi).

Yellow signifies the Earth, from which a plant takes root and the Taekwondo foundation is born.

Taegeuk Sam Jang (Fire/Sun). Combining blocks with counterattacks.

A green stalk of hope and strength begins to sprout from the yellow earth.

Taegeuk Sa Jang (Thunder/Bravery). Side kicks (Yop Chagi) and knife-hand strikes (Sonnal).

Green signifies the plant's growth. The Taekwondo skill begins to blossom and take shape.

Taegeuk Oh Jang (Wind). Evasions and jumps, sport sparring combos (Kyorugi).

The tree grows higher toward the blue sky. Learning fluid movement without resistance.

Taegeuk Yuk Jang (Water). Rotations and spinning kicks (Dwit Chagi). Sparring tactics.

Blue signifies the Heaven towards which the plant grows. Growth of physical and tactical dominance.

Taegeuk Chil Jang (Mountain). Precise strikes to vulnerable points and stopping attacks.

Danger and responsibility associated with the red color appear.

Taegeuk Pal Jang (Earth/Origin). Combining all acquired skills.

Red signifies danger. Cautioning the student to exercise control and warning the opponent.

Highest student rank. Final prep for black belt (Kyokpa - breaking techniques).

The student is ready, only the test of darkness and maturity (black) remains.

First master rank. Koryo form. Practitioners under 15 wear a "Poom" belt (red-black).

Black means maturity and immunity to fear and darkness. The seed became a strong tree.

Master form Keumgang (Diamond). Expected to assist in teaching lower Gups.

Embodiment of diamond hardness and unyielding spirit on the tatami.

Master form Taebaek (Mountain). Highest assistant instructor title (Bo-Sabum).

Sacred mountain representing the connection of earth and heaven.

Earning Sabum (Master/Instructor) title. Pyongwon form. Min. age 21.

Endless horizon of knowledge. A master who doesn't need to show off strength.

Master form Sipjin. Rank of senior officials of the Kukkiwon organization.

10 symbols of longevity. Wholeness of technique and character.

Jitae form. Advanced examiners with immense technical repertoire.

Grounding and unshakable wisdom at the threshold of higher martial arts politics.

Grandmaster rank (Kwanjangnim). Form Chonkwon.

The concept of heavenly expanse and deep connection to Taekwondo spiritual essence.

Hansu form. Prestigious position in the Kukkiwon headquarters examining board.

Water flowing to the sea. All-encompassing power and continuous progress.

Ilyeo form. Most precious awarded living rank, embodiment of the Taekwondo way.

Oneness of spirit and body (Ilyeo). Perfect self-knowledge.

Mostly posthumous or exceptional honor for founders (e.g. Un Yong Kim).

Attaining the divine, the circle of Taekwondo path permanently closes into history.