Boasting fine lines and a graceful gait that resembles a dance, taekkyeon is a traditional Korean martial art that has been recognized as the National Intangible Cultural Asset No. 76 and a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Item. Korea University's only taekkyeon club, Taekkyeon Hanul trains the body through its unique steps and techniques, and spreads the value of taekkyeon widely.

Tell us about your club.

Joo-hee Hello, we are the only traditional martial arts club at Korea University, Taekkyeon Hanul! You'll learn a mix of footwork, taejil (shaking your opponent's center and flipping them over), handwork, and footwork. The club room is equipped with a variety of exercise equipment, so you can work out to your heart's content during breaks. Other activities include participating in taekkyeon competitions and other events, and connecting with taekkyeon clubs from other universities.

What was the most interesting or impressive part of taekkyeon when you first started it?

Su-bin It was exciting to be able to actually learn a martial art that I had seen on various media! I was also impressed that the beat of the steps matched the Korean traditional music quite well. At the Taekkyeon Training Center, I often practiced with Korean traditional music on.

Joo-hee When I was doing the steps, it felt like I was dancing because I was constantly shifting my center of gravity.

What do you think is the appeal of taekkyeon, and what makes it unique compared to other martial arts?

Joo-hee It's a martial art that's more specialized in footwork (kicking), and it uses taejil as opposed to taekwondo. It's a really strong martial art that combines handwork, footwork, and taejil.

Su-bin I think the most special thing about taekkyeon is that it is a martial art that's laid-back and enjoyable! It's also very appealing to be able to customize your own form by creating the right combination of taejil, handwork, and footwork based on your personal characteristics.

Tell us about a memorable training session or competition.

Seong-su I went to watch the 2022 Taekkyeon Battle, and it was very different seeing the skills I learned in action.

Su-bin I remember the taekkyeon competition held at Hyehwa after the pandemic ended, and even more so because we participated and won second place!

Joo-hee When I was taking lessons at the Taekkyeon Training Center, a senior told me, “You are in great shape and if you work hard, you will do really well,” which gave me a lot of confidence!

Tell us about a moment when you had more fun because you were together.

Joo-hee Recently, I met with many alumni in preparation for the 30th anniversary festival. We shared various stories and looked at old photos and club journals together, which made me feel emotional.

Su-bin I remember a senior trying to barbecue at a club frat party and using a household torch as a flamethrower (laughs). It's a memory that will always amuse me.

How has your experience changed from when you were first introduced to taekkyeon?

Seong-su I've gotten into a mindset where I'm constantly looking at my own movements, reflecting on myself, and making progress.

Su-bin Maybe I should say that my explanation skills have improved. I started out as a learner, but once I took on the role of leading the workouts, I actually learned more as I thought about how to explain things so they would be better understood.

Joo-hee I've become flexible. Because it's a close-range martial art, you need flexibility to kick low, so I practiced a lot against the wall.

Have you ever had a moment where you thought to yourself, “I can actually do these cool moves!”?

Su-bin I'm most impressed when I compete with my teammates. When I practice a skill in unison with someone else, and I succeed, I feel a sense of joy that I can actually use this move, which motivates me to practice.

What goals or plans do you have for your club?

Seong-su I want to work hard and develop the skills to participate in competitions.

Joo-hee My goal is to further hone my taekkyeon so that I can confidently demonstrate my skills in front of new members and teach them when I return from my exchange program.

Su-bin I heard that in the past, we used to go out to the central plaza once a year, set up a stage, and invite the pungmul band (Korean traditional percussion band) to play, and taekkyeon clubs from other universities to participate in outdoor competitions! I think it would be a lot of fun if we could recreate that.