The origin of Taekwondo in Korea can be traced back to the Koguryo dynasty, founded in 37BC, since mural paintings found in the ruins of the Royal tombs built by that dynasty, show scenes of Taekwondo practice.

Taekwondo was also practiced during the Silla dynasty. Korean culture and martial arts of that period were strongly influenced and enriched by the Hwarangdo, a military, educational and social organization and noble youths of the Silla dynasty.

The code of honour on which the Hwarang was based was loyalty to the nation, respect and obedience to one’s parents, faithfulness to one’s friends, courage in battle and avoidance of unnecessary violence and killing.

In the history of Koryo, Taekwondo which was then termed “Subak” was practiced not only as a skill to improve health and as a sport activity, but it was also encouraged as a martial art of high value. Subak is believed to have gained its highest popularity during the reign of King Uijong between 1,147 and 1,170AD.

On September 16 1961, the Korea Taekwondo Association was established and on Februaru 25 1962, the Korea taekwondo Association became the 27 th affiliate to join the Korea Amateur Sports Association. On October 9 1963, Taekwondo became an official event in the 44 th National Athletic Meet.

Korean instructors beganm going abroad to teach Taekwondo in the 1960s, taekwondo made its way to the world sport through the 1 st World taekwondo Championships held in Seoul, Korea in May 1973 where 19 countries competed. At this meet representatives of these countries established the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF).

Taekwondo became a demonstration sport at the 24 th Seoul Olympics in 1988 and the 25 th Barcelona Olympics in 1992. Taekwondo was adopted as an official Olympic sport at the 103 rd session of the IOC held in Paris, France on September 4 1994.

Taekwondo was adopted for the first time at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, with Miss Lauren Burns winning Gold for Australia.

In 1996, the number of member countries of the WTF totaled 144 and the global Taekwondo population is estimated at 30 million people.