Who Was the Founder of Taekwondo in the US?

The story of Taekwondo's introduction to the United States is rich and layered, rooted in a mixture of cultural exchange and martial improvement. To understand how it became a prominent martial art in America, we must explore the life and contributions of its key figure who brought Taekwondo to the forefront in the US—General Choi Hong Hi.

The Early Life of General Choi Hong Hi

Born on November 9, 1918, in Hwa Dae, Myong-chong, South Korea, General Choi Hong Hi first became interested in martial arts during his youth. He trained in various traditional Korean styles, which contributed to his foundational skills. Choi's understanding of martial arts became more profound when he was introduced to Japanese martial arts during the Japanese occupation of Korea.

Madame Choi’s Role in Taekwondo's Development

While General Choi Hong Hi played a crucial role in forming Taekwondo, it is essential to acknowledge the contributions of others in this journey, including his students, colleagues, and fellow martial artists. Through their support, Choi developed the tenets and philosophies that would define the martial art. His wife, Madame Choi, helped assist and propagate the art by organizing local training sessions, taking an active role in supporting their dojo in everything.

The Birth of Taekwondo

In 1955, Choi established the new martial art, formally naming it "Taekwondo." The name encapsulates the essence of the practice while reflecting its roots—“tae” for foot, “kwon” for fist, and “do” as the way or art. This nomenclature aligned with the uniqueness of the techniques and philosophies of Taekwondo. However, Choi did not stop at merely naming a martial art; he began to shape its structure and curriculum.

Bringing Taekwondo to the United States

In the 1960s, General Choi traveled to the United States. His arrival marked a pivotal moment in the history of martial arts in America. Through exhibitions, seminars, and personal demonstrations, he began teaching Taekwondo to American military personnel who were stationed in Korea. Upon their return to the US, these soldiers helped introduce and disseminate Taekwondo across various states.

The Establishment of Taekwondo Organizations

In 1973, General Choi founded the International Taekwondo Federation (ITF), further strengthening the global foundation of Taekwondo. This organization not only focused on the martial aspect but also emphasized the philosophy behind Taekwondo and its teachings. Under Choi's guidance, Taekwondo flourished in the United States and adapted to the growing interest among American martial artists and non-martial artists alike. The first US Taekwondo school was established in 1963 in New York City.

Is Taekwondo a Global Phenomenon Today?

Today, there are thousands of Taekwondo dojos across the United States, with many practitioners competing at local, national, and international levels. The question often arises, who was the founder of Taekwondo in the US? While General Choi Hong Hi is recognized for his foundational role, it is essential to understand that many teach Taekwondo, maintain its principles, and continue to innovate within its structure.

Conclusion

Understanding who was the founder of Taekwondo in the US involves recognizing the profound impact of General Choi Hong Hi, alongside the contributions of many who paved his way. The legacy he left has empowered and influenced countless individuals across generations, fostering personal growth and dedication through martial arts. As Taekwondo grows, it continues to build on those foundational teachings, evolving into a diverse and vibrant community.