The
exact origins of Tang Soo Do, as well as all other martial arts, is
obscure, although there are a number of historical theories. The most
traditional view is that martial arts did not originate in any one country,
but evolved in all parts of the globe as a method of self-defense that
was needed by primitive people.
Development
In Early Years
The
ancestral art of Korean Tang Soo Do can be traced back to the period
when Korea was divided into three kingdoms:
Koguryo
was founded in 37 BC in northern Korea.
The Silla Dynasty was founded in 57 BC in the southeast peninsula.
The third kingdom, Paekche was founded in 18 BC.
Finally,
after a long series of wars, the Silla Dynasty united the three kingdoms
in 668 AD. During this period, the primitive martial arts were very
popular as a method of self-defense in warfare. This is evidence in
the many mural paintings, ruins, and remains, which depict Tang Soo
Do in those days. Among the three kingdoms, the Silla Dynasty was most
famous for its development of martial arts. A corps composed of a group
of young aristocrats who were called "Hwa Rang Dan" was the
major force behind the development of the art. These warriors were instrumental
in unifying the Korean peninsula under the new Silla Dynasty (668 AD
- 935 AD). Many of the early leaders of that dynasty were originally
members of the Hwa Rang Dan. Most Korean martial arts trace their spiritual
and technical heritage to this group. In fact, the names of some martial
arts such as Hwa Rang Do or Hwa Soo Do, still reflect this origination.
Medieval
Development
The
united Silla Kingdom was ultimately overthrown by a warlord, Wang Kun,
in 918 AD. The new kingdom, "Koryo", lasted for 475 years
(918 AD - 1392 AD). In 1392, the Yi Dynasty successes the Koryo kingdom.
The Yi Dynasty remained intact for 500 years. During the 1000 year period
of the Koryo Kingdom and the Yi Dynasty, what we today know as Tang
Soo Do was increasingly popular with the military. More importantly
however, the art also became very popular with the general public. During
this period, Tang Soo Do was referred to as Kwon Bop, Tae Kyun, Soo
Bahk, Tang Soo and others. The first complete martial arts book was
written at this time. This most important book is called "Mooyae
Dobo Tangji". It was written in 1790 and contained illustrations
that substantiated the theory that Tang Soo Do (formally called "Soo
Bahk Ki") had quickly developed into a very sophisticated art of
combat techniques.
Modern
History
The
occupation of Korea by the Japanese military regime took place from
1909 to 1945. During this period, practicing and teaching of any martial
arts was restricted in Korea.
After
World War II in 1945, this restriction was lifted. Several martial arts
training schools were soon erected.
