The exact origin of
Tang Soo Do, as well as of any of the martial arts in general, is
obscure though there are a number of historical theories. However, the
most credible and traditional view is that martial arts originated not
in any one country but in almost all parts of the globe, as they were
needed by primitive people.
The ancestral art
of Korean Tang Soo Do can be traced back to the period of the three
kingdoms. At that time, Korea was divided into three kingdoms.
Koguryo was founded
37BC in northern Korea. The Silla was founded in 57BC in the southeast
peninsula, and Paekche was founded in 18BC.
After a long series
of wars, the Silla Dynasty united the three kingdoms in 668AD. During
this perios of time, the primitive martial arts were very popular in
warfare.
This is evidenced
by mural paintings, ruins and remains, which depicted Tang Soo Do in
those days.
Among the three
kingdoms, the Silla Dynasty was most famous for tits development of
martial arts. A corps formed by young aristocrats who were called "Hwa
Rang Dan" was the major group who developed those arts. These warriors
were instrumental in unifying the peninsula as the new Silla Dyansty
(668AD-935AD), and furnished many of the early leaders of that dynasty.
Most Korean martial arts trace their spiritual and technical heritage to
this group. The names of some groups and arts reflect this, such as
Hwa Rang Do or Hwa Soo Do. The Five Codes of
Tang Soo Do, originated by Won Kwang, a monk, are part of their
spiritual heritage.
The united Silla
Kingdom was overthrown by a warlord, Wang Kun, in 918AD and a new
kingdom, called "Koryo", lasted for 475 years. In 1392AD the New
Kingdom, Yi Dynasty succeeded and lasted about 500 years. Approximately
a thousand year period elapsed between the two dynasties. Tang Soo Do
became very popular among the military society. However, most
importantly, this art also became popular with the general public. In
those days it was called Kwon Bop, Tae Kyun, Soo Bahk, Tang Soo etc.
The very first
complete martial arts book was written at this time. This most important
book is called "Mooyae Dobo Tongil". It was written in 1790AD and
contained illustrations that substantiate the theory that "Soo Bahk Ki",
the formal name of Tang Soo Do, had quickly developed into a
sophisticated art of combat techniques.
