Many people don’t know much about the belts in a given martial art. Today, I thought I’d enlighten you as to why the various belts are the color that they are in Tae Kwon Do (According to The WTF -World Tae Kwon Do Federation).
First let me show you a guide to belt progression as it exists in North America. Now you may be used to seeing Orange Belts and Brown Belts depending on your affiliation and Grand Master who’s style you are studying. What I am presenting is the current and long used system by Grand Master Chung Lee (9th Degree Black Belt).
Now the first thing I would add is that there is in fact a half step between white and yellow (A yellow stripe) and that the black belt itself is in fact the first degree. In fact, first degree black belts do not wear a stripe as the belt itself is considered the stripe. As a result, upon getting their second degree ranking they are given 2 stripes simultaneously. Interestingly, it is often viewed as a tacky move to affix a first degree stripe. Black belt is about humbleness and realizing that as you reach the peak of the first large mountain, there are several larger ones to climb in stride.
Now I will examine the individual belts:
White Belt
The first entry level belt signifies innocence. It therefore reflects the fact that the new student has no knowledge of Tae Kwon Do. As a baby or child, you must learn to walk before you can run. As such a white belt will dedicate himself to learning the proper stances, kicks and Korean words. indeed, just learning to tie the belt is a hurdle for many white belts.
Interesting fact: Black Belts tie their belts completely differently then colored belts, in addition to wearing different uniforms.
Yellow Belt
Often thought to represent the Sun, it in fact symbolizes the Earth. Once achieving this ranking (in which you may now begin to spar) you have planted the seed of knowledge in the proverbial ground of yourself. From here the knowledge may take root and grow.
Green Belt
The green belt signifies the seedling sprouting from the ground and now reaching for the sun.
Interesting fact: Many students quit at this point as they now must decide if the sport is right for them. From this point on, excellence starts to become a goal, rather then simply familiarizing themselves with the techniques. As well, they are now allowed to attempt advanced techniques.
Blue Belt:
Now your knowledge has reached the blue skies. Your knowledge is broadening and your muscle memory is beginning to mature.
Red Belt:
Red signifies the sun, but it also signifies danger. Now that you have risen above the confines of Earth you are starting to realize that Tae Kwon Do is much larger and intricate then you previously thought possible. More importantly, you now possess the knowledge and skill to inflict significant force and cause extreme bodily injury.
Black Belt:
This belt represents the vastness of the Universe and full mind and body maturity. It is the exact opposite of white belt’s innocence. At this point you have overcome fear and achieved a triumph over the darkness. You are no longer afraid of what you do not know.
Interesting Fact: Depending on your affiliation it may take up to 6-8 years to achieve this rank. Also, only 1 in 10 new students at a Tae Kwon Do school will make it to black belt. From this select group of athletes, only 1 in 10 will continue to achieve a 2nd degree or higher ranking. Indeed, You would have to ask about 12,000 people on the street before you found someone with a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do.
Tae Kwon Do is a lifelong process, with a 5th Degree signifying a Master, a 9th degree for Grand Master and the 10th and final degree of black belt is a lifetime achievement award of sorts. It must be honorarily given, rather then earned the traditional way.
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