Taekkyeon is more than a martial art; it is a cultural rhythm, a philosophy in motion, and a testament to Korea’s enduring spirit. With its signature triangular footwork and graceful, deceptive techniques, Taekkyeon blends combat with choreography, offering practitioners a path that strengthens both body and soul.
What is Taekkyeon?
Taekkyeon, or Taekyun, is a traditional Korean martial art. It is characterised by a fluid, dynamic footwork called pumbalki, or “stepping-on-triangles”. Taekkyon includes hand and foot techniques to unbalance, trip, or throw the opponent.
Techniques:
- Pumbalki (Footwork)
- Hwalgaejit (Deceptive arm movements)
- Baljil (Kicks)
- Sonjil (Strikes)
- Taejil (Throws)
- Ttanjuk (Joint Locks)
The Origins of Taekkyeon
Taekyeon was documented for the first time in the West by anthropologist Stewart Culin in his book Korean Games, written in 1895. Taekkyon was widely practised during the Joseon period. Two versions existed at the time: one for combat application used by militaries, the other as a game, very popular among lower classes alongside ssireum (Korean wrestling). Both combat sports were seen at festivals, attended by all social classes.
Taekkyeon's popularity suffered as Neo-Confucianism became widespread among the elite, and it underwent a long period of decline. At the dawn of the 20th century, it was only practised around the capital city of Hanyang (Seoul) in the district of Jongro. The subsequent Japanese occupation prohibited gatherings of people and indigenous fighting techniques, which nearly made the art extinct.
After the Korean War, there was only one surviving master: Song Deok-gi, who was part of the last generation that received a traditional education under the tutelage of Master Im Ho. He had maintained his practice in secret throughout the Japanese occupation. The style he practised was called Widae (High-village) after his village of Sajik. Song was critical in the preservation of taekkyon due to his link to pre-war teachings. After a martial arts demonstration given for then-president Syngman Rhee’s birthday, he was revealed to the public on 26th March 1958 and became known as the “Last Taekkyeon Master of the Joseon Dynasty”.
On June 1st, 1983, owing to the efforts of Song’s pupil Shin Han-seung, taekkyon was classified as an Important Intangible Cultural Asset by the Korean government. It is one of two Korean martial arts classified as such. Song Deok-gi and Shin Han-seung were subsequently given living national treasure status by the South Korean government. Since then, taekkyon has enjoyed a renaissance with the establishment of university clubs, the opening of new schools, and active promotional efforts from the government and associations alike.
The Styles of Taekkyeon
Korea Taekkyon Federation
The Korea Taekkyon Federation (KTF), sometimes called Daehan Taekkyon, is based in Seoul Olympic Park and was established in 1991. It was led by Lee Yong-bok until 2015. Originally an 8th Dan in Taekwondo, he taught himself Taekkyon with a brief stint studying under Song Deok-gi and Shin Hand-seung. The KTF has been a member of the Korean Sport and Olympic Committee (KSOC) since 2007.
World Taekkyeon Federation
This federation is led by Jeong Kyung-hwa, designated a “living national treasure” and an instrument in UNESCO recognition of Taekkyeon. This style preserves traditional forms and rituals and is often referred to as “Chungju Taekkyeon” due to its regional base.
Kyulyun Association (KTK)
This association prioritises combat realism and tournament innovation. Founded by DO Ki-hyn, blending Song and Shin’s teachings. This association also organises the annual “Taekyun Battle,” a prestigious full-contact event. This style focuses on practical application and dynamic sparring, known for integrating old-style techniques into modern formats.
Benefits of Training In Taekkyeon
Physical Vitality and Longevity
Taekkyeon’s dance-like motions are deceptively powerful. The constant shifting of weight, paired with deceptive arm movements (hwalgaejit), builds core strength, balance, and joint mobility. Because the art avoids harsh impact and favours circular, flowing techniques, it’s remarkably joint-friendly, making it accessible to practitioners of all ages. Kicks and throws are executed with whole-body alignment, emphasising control and precision over brute force. The result is a martial art that strengthens without strain.
Cultural Connection and Philosophical Depth
Training in Taekkyeon is a journey into Korea’s living heritage. As the first martial art recognised by UNESCO as an intangible Cultural Asset, it carries centuries of philosophy, ritual, and symbolism. Practitioners don traditional hanbok, engage in respectful sparring, and learn techniques passed down through oral lineage. Each movement is a dialogue with history, an act of preservation and reverence. Whether through the Widae lineage’s philosophical purity or the KTTA’s cultural stewardship, Taekkyeon offers a profound sense of belonging to something timeless.
Community, Creativity and Non-Aggression
Taekkyeon schools often emphasise camaraderie and mutual respect. Sparring is not about domination, but about learning to read and respond, redirecting force rather than overpowering it. This ethos of non-aggression fosters emotional safety and deepens interpersonal connection.
Taekkyeon stands as a bridge between past and present, a martial art that honours its roots while evolving through diverse schools and philosophies. Whether pursued for physical vitality, cultural connection, or personal growth, Taekkyeon invites practitioners into a space of grace, creativity, and mutual respect. In every step, strike, and throw, it teaches us to move with purpose, to listen with our bodies, and to transform conflict into harmony.
