Taekwondo Belts

Taekwondo Color Belt Meanings:

When you visit a Taekwon-Do dojang, or participate in a taekwondo class for the first time, you will notice that the belt colour of the students will be different. The belt color signifies each students level of training and proficiency.

In order to progress to the next belt colour, the student need to undergo a physical test (ITF Grading), which becomes increasingly more complex and difficult as they progress to higher ranks.

White Belt

White : Signifies innocence. No previous knowledge of Taekwon-Do, as that of a beginner student.

This belt normally comes with the dobok, and no test is required to wear a white belt. It is the equivalent of ‘L-plates’ for a driver.

Yellow Belt

Yellow : Signifies the earth from which a plant sprouts and takes root as the foundation of Taekwon-Do is being laid.

Green Belt

Green : Signifies the plants growth as the Taekwon-Do skills begin to develop.

Blue Belt

Blue : Signifies the sky and the heavens, towards which the tree grows as Taekwon-Do training progresses.

Red Belt

Red : Signifies danger, cautioning the student to exercise control, and warning an opponent to stay away.

Black Belt

Black : The opposite of white, therefore signifying a maturity and proficiency in Taekwon-Do and the holder’s imperviousness to darkness and fear.

Significance of Belt Colour

The main purpose of the belt is not just to distinguish the rank but also to represent the philosophical significance of the Taekwon-do practitioner.

It was decided at a special meeting on July 1st 1985 that the belt should be wrapped around the waist only once.

One (as in once around the waist) symbolises:

• Pursue one goal whatsoever, once it has been determined
• Serve one master with unshakable loyalty
• Gain a victory in one blow

The belt should be tied in a square (or reef) knot beginning by crossing the right side over the left side then crossing the left over the right. The ends of the belt should hang at the same length and the opening of the square knot should be pointed to the students left.

The belt colour meanings refer either to the stage of development of a student, or to the plant/tree which symbolises the Taekwon-do student’s progression.

The belt colours were not chosen arbitrary. They are in-fact steeped in tradition. The colours of Black, Red and Blue denote the various levels of hierarchy during the Koguryo and Silla Dynasties of ancient Korea.

The logo on the back of the International Taekwon-do Federation uniform symbolises an evergreen tree. (source)