Taekwondo is a Korean martial art translated as "the way of the foot and fist" or "the way of kicking and punching." Taekwondo is known for its emphasis on kicking techniques generated by speed and power. Taekwondo develops strength, speed, balance, flexibility and stamina. Practitioners rely on fast footwork to set-up kicking techniques at long range and then execute hand techniques when in close range. Taekwondo also trains in forms which is a pre-arranged pattern of blocks, hand strikes and kicks.

Taekwondo is South Korea's national sport and in 2000 it became an official Olympic Sport.