There are numerous Taekwondo organizations with hundreds of instructors teaching in hundreds of dojangs. Each organization and instructor teaches his or her own interpretation of Taekwondo and operates his or her dojang in accordance with his or her own rules and protocol. The protocol presented below may or may not be in accordance with that of other dojangs, or national or local organizations.
Training in Taekwondo is mental, as well as physical. In addition to self-defense techniques, students learn to build self-control, discipline, and respect for other people. As a part of the training, certain traditions and formal behaviors are observed (protocol). These behaviors do not have any type of religious symbolism, they merely show respect for the oriental cultural roots of Taekwondo.
Etiquette is an integral part of dojang protocol. Etiquette is your actions that express your respect of another person. Etiquette is a lofty and valued attitude and is a source of harmony and solidarity. To maintain order in a group of students, especially children, there must be strict discipline and enforcement of the rules of etiquette. A moral and modest attitude is important in etiquette. Etiquette "ye" is an essential part of Taekwondo training. Ye is an abbreviation of "kyongnye," the bow that signifies respect to another person or thing.
Students must constantly be guided by a deep respect for Taekwondo, the dojang, and all members of the dojang. Good manners, politeness, courteous behavior, and maintenance of formal etiquette are part of training. Students must know dojang protocol and always obey it.
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