Does Tae Kwon Do emphasize kicking too much?

Answer 1

No. Taekwondo is a Martial Art that is a reality-based system of self defense which utilizes kicks as a primary weapon because of the advantages that come from kicking, however it should be taught and practiced on balance with hand, knee and elbow strikes as well as grappling skills. Some instructors might teach an unbalanced emphasis on kicking in their own dojang (school), but that is not the complete art of Taekwondo. It is also important to note that what many people see demonstrated to the public and in tournaments is not an accurate representation of Taekwondo as it is taught for self defense.