TRADITIONAL TANG SOO DO ETIQUETTE

Of the many aspects of Tang Soo Do, few are as essential to proper training in the art as etiquette. The key to success in any martial art is the development of mental and physical well-being. In conjunctions with these qualities, a student must learn proper respect. Learning and practicing etiquette is the key to attaining respect and discipline in Tang Soo Do.

Tang Soo Do distinguishes itself from many other martial arts through its practice of simple, traditional martial art etiquette within a structured training program. This type of "manners" extends itself, like all aspects of Tang Soo Do, into each student's everyday life.

Etiquette in Tang Soo Do is a subtle way to show quiet respect. By simply shaking a master's hand correctly or waiting for a senior to be seated first, one can show respect. In this way, Tang Soo Do students practice humility and respect towards one another. Likewise, the use of etiquette also moves from teacher to student, as well as from student to teacher. From this mutual respect arises the concept of "military brotherhood in training" which is the sense of brotherhood and pride that occurs within a school. This "glue," which binds the students together like a family, can only be attained by respect and the practice of traditional etiquette between those who train in the martial arts.

In addition to being a show of quiet respect and humility, the practice of etiquette has proven itself to be an essential element used in the preservation of Tang Soo Do and its traditional Korean roots. By passing down the concepts and forms of respect, the art has endured, and lives on in its present form.