Listen "Taekwondo's Genesis: Kwans and Korean Unification"
Episode Synopsis
The provided episode offer a comprehensive historical account of Taekwondo's development, beginning with its origins in post-colonial Korea driven by a desire for cultural reassertion. They detail the establishment and evolution of the "Kwans," independent martial arts schools that formed the foundation of Taekwondo, including the initial five (Song Moo Kwan, Chung Do Kwan, Moo Duk Kwan, Ji Do Kwan, and Chang Moo Kwan) and their expansion. The episode explain the diverse martial arts influences on these early Kwans, ranging from Japanese Karate to Chinese Kung Fu and traditional Korean forms. Furthermore, the episode discuss the complex unification process that led to the official adoption of the name "Taekwondo" and the formation of organizations like the Korea Taekwondo Association (KTA), while also acknowledging persisting divisions that resulted in multiple Taekwondo branches, such as World Taekwondo (WT) and the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF). Ultimately, the episode highlight Taekwondo's transformation into a globally recognized sport and a symbol of Korean identity.
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