TENETS OF TAE KWON DO

The seven Tenets are the guiding principles of Tae Kwon Do. A practitioner of Tae Kwon Do will live his or her life according to the following tenets, which are recited at the beginning of every class.

HONOR

Is nobility of mind and maintenance of one's personal dignity in the face of adversity. Honor is the gift you give yourself.

COURTESY

Is thoughtfulness and consideration of others, humility, civility, and politeness.

INTEGRITY

Is the uncompromising adherence to a code of moral values and principles. It requires soundness of ethical strength.

PERSEVERANCE

Is steadfast pursuit of one's goals. It is the quality of never giving up in the face of a challenge.

SELF-CONTROL

Is restraint of one's emotions and reactions. Control comes from within rather than outside forces.

COURAGE

Is the spirit, which enables one to face danger with self-possession, confidence, and resolution. Courage consists of a reserve of moral strength on which one may draw in time of emergency. A courageous person will not tolerate injustice.

COMMUNITY

Is the responsibility to contribute to society regardless of one's position in life. Civic accountability requires us to do our share and to be part of the solution of society's problems. Remember: Every right implies a responsibility, every opportunity an obligation, every possession a duty.