What Is Tang Soo Do?

Tang Soo Do is a traditional Korean martial art that has long historical roots extending as far back as 2000 years ago.

Tang refers to the T'ang Dynasty of China and, by extension, the shared cultural background between China and Korea (617-907 AD). Soo means "hand" in Korean, but implies fist, punch, strike, defense. Do means "way of life" or "art".

Practicing a traditional martial art combines fighting technique with artistry. The athletic or martial aspect is embellished with a stylized delivery. Thus a long and deep stance, though cumbersome and impractical in combat, conveys stability and balance during the execution of a hyung (a form, or choreographed set of steps).

While observing the traditional values of respect, discipline, self-control and etiquette, our ultimate goal is self-improvement -- physical and mental.