How does Tae Kwon Do affect Korea?

Answer 1

Taekwondo originated and was named in Seoul, South Korea, but Taekwondo schools and organizations exist in North Korea today.

Many of the roots that influenced the development of modern Taekwondo have their origins in the entire peninsula of Korea between the 1st century BC, and the later part of the 19th century AD, prior to the Japanese occupation of Korea, and before the split of North and South Korea. Back then, Korea was one country, and the citizens were one people sharing a single culture.

After WWII, a political struggle resulted in some political leaders choosing to side with the communist influences of China, with others choosing a democratic system of government. This led to the Korean War (1950 - 53), which was halted with a cease-fire agreement, and a heavily guarded zone was established at the 38th parallel separating the Communist North Korea from the Republic of South Korea.

Taekwondo was named as the official Martial Art of Korea on April 11, 1955 in Seoul, South Korea. The first organization unifying the various Kwans (schools), the Korea Taekwondo Association (KTA) was established in Seoul in 1961, and the national academy, the Kukkiwon, serving as the World Taekwondo Headquarters was completed in 1972 in Seoul, South Korea. The World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) was established in 1973, and serves as the sport governing body, and the International Federation for Olympic Taekwondo.

Taekwondo has since spread to most countries around the world, including North Korea, and each country has member National Associations recognized by the WTF, and teams that compete in international competitions, world championships, and the summer Olympic Games.

Answer 2

Taekwondo is a source of great national price in Korea.