Tae Kwon Do is a modern method of self-defense or unarmed combat. The essence of the art rests in the integrity of the practitioner. The guiding principal of the art is that the practitioner shall make no attack, except if he or she is threatened by a dangerous opponent. The disciplines of Tae Kwon Do are designed to make the student non-violent, to inspire feelings of confidence and well-being, and to make life more meaningful.

Tae Kwon Do was first heard of centuries ago in Korea as a form of foot fighting (Tae Kyon). Hand techniques were added over time and the combination is known as Tae Kwon Do. Because the legs can develop more power and reach farther than the hands, Tae Kwon Do can be a more effective and spectacular than other oriental self-defense arts.