There are two main organizations in taekwondo: the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), a South Korean federation that offers 10 belt ranks, and the International Taekwondo Federation (ITF), a North Korean-based federation that offers 11 belt ranks. (1)
Henceforth, the Taekwondo belt ranks and colors depend on the organization governing the taekwondo school. (1)
Belt colors and progression
As mentioned before, the belt ranks differ according to the organization. Each color represents students’ knowledge and skill level and as they develop and grow in Taekwondo, they earn a new belt. (2)
Here are belt colors and ranks from the lowest to the highest: (3)
|
World Taekwondo federation (WTF) |
International Taekwondo Federation (ITF) |
| White | White |
| Yellow | White with yellow stripe |
| Orange with yellow stripes | yellow |
| Green | yellow with green stripe |
| Green with blue stripe | Green |
| Blue | Green with blue stripe |
| Black with black or blue stripes | Blue |
| ___ | Blue with red stripe |
| Brown | Red |
| Red | Red with black stripe |
| Black | Black |
Taekwondo degrees and seniority
Taekwondo seniority and degree depend on many factors, such as skill development, knowledge acquisition, and training time. Those who advance in rank are expected to have a deeper understanding and mastery of taekwondo art. (2)
This means that they have to demonstrate their mastery of forms, technical elements, sparring, self-defense, breaking skills and even a written test in the higher ranks. (2)
It is worth noting that the time it takes to progress in Taekwondo varies. The lower ranks can be achieved in a few months, while the higher ranks take longer. (2)
Taekwondo black belt
There are 10 degrees for the black belt in taekwondo. Taekwondo practitioners start with a first-degree black belt (1 stripe), then keep moving up till they reach the 10th-degree black belt. (3)
It is worth noting that taekwondo has a relatively short time to achieve a black belt, as disciplined people who train consistently can achieve a black belt in around 3 years. (3)
However, the 10th-degree black belt is very difficult to achieve, as it is an honorary title given to those who have influenced the sport and achieved great things in taekwondo. (3)
In conclusion, advancing through the taekwondo belt ranks is a testament to your dedication, discipline and progress. Each belt is a cornerstone in your journey to master taekwondo, understand its essence and refine your techniques. (4)
References:
(2) Journey Through Taekwondo Belts: Understanding The Ranking System – The MMA Guru
(3) Taekwondo Belt Levels and Ranking Guide | MiddleEasy
(4) From White to Black, Taekwondo belt ranks explained. (thekoma.com)
