Taekwondo

Taekwondo is a relatively modern Korean martial sport thats often claimed to be the most popular style in the world. Although some exponents say it dates back thousands of years, records indicate that it was created by Gen. Choi Hong-hi in the 1950s from a mix of mostly Japanese karate hand and foot techniques, along with tae kyon (an indigenous Korean martial art) kicks.

Now an official Olympic sport, taekwondo emphasizes throwing rapid kicks and body punches. In fact, its reputed to have the most extensive kicking arsenals of any martial art. In classroom training, breaking, forms, one-step sparring and self-defense are also taught. Taekwondo was spread to the West mainly by Jhoon Rhee. Numerous other masters, including Hee Il-cho, were sent abroad by the Korean government to introduce foreigners to Korean culture.