On a philosophical level, Taekwon-Do is based on the culture and ethics held in the ancient Orient, and as a practitioner you are obliged to live by the five tenets of Taekwon-Do.
The five tenets are one of the most important aspects of the martial art. All students are obliged to observe and implement these tenets not only while practising Taekwon-Do, but also throughout daily life.
Courtesy
Ye Ui · 예의To be courteous is to show excellence of manners and social conduct and to exhibit polite behaviour. Examples in Taekwon-Do might be to distinguish instructor from student, senior from junior and elder from younger, and to maintain the appropriate etiquette at all times, both within and outside the dojang (training hall, 도장).
Integrity
Yom Chi · 염치To adhere to moral and ethical principles and to be able to define right from wrong. An instructor who misrepresents themselves and their art by presenting improper techniques because of a lack of knowledge, or a student who “fixes” breaking materials before a demonstration, would show no sign of possessing integrity.
Perseverance
In Nae · 인내A steady persistence in a course of action, in spite of any difficulties, obstacles or discouragement. In Taekwon-Do, one must set a goal and then constantly persevere to achieve it.
Self-control
Guk Gi · 극기The ability to control or restrain oneself, or one’s actions or feelings. This is one of the most important of the tenets both inside and outside the dojang. A loss of self-control in the dojang can prove disastrous for both student and opponent, and likewise outside the dojang during daily life.
Indomitable spirit
Baekjul Boolgool · 백절불굴An attribute shown when a courageous person and their principles are pitted against overwhelming odds. If confronted with injustice, the Taekwon-Do student will deal with the belligerent without any fear or hesitation at all, with indomitable spirit, regardless of who and however many they may be.