History

Originating in Korea, around 2000 years ago, Tang Soo Do is one of the oldest martial art systems and its techniques and philosophy are still being taught as they were taught in ancient times.

Although there are many variations to the history of Tang Soo Do, it is recognized that once the prohibition of native martial arts in Korea was lifted (1945), martial art organisations flourished, and Master Hwang Kee founded modern Tang Soo. Whilst many organisations were developed under names such as Soo Bahk Do and Tae Soo Do, Tang Soo Do became the most popular term for the art, and Korean martial arts were being taught around the world. Political leaders however opposed the name due to the Chinese influence, and due to their concern with the value of Korean nationalism, they sponsored a group to create a new name for the art called 'Tae Kwon Do'.

The literal translation of the word 'Tang' refers to the T'ang Dynasty of China, reflecting the shared cultural background and influences between China and Korea (617-907 AD). 'Soo' means hand, but implies fist, punch, strike or defence. 'Do' means the way of life or art. Thus Tang Soo Do means the Korean classical martial art, which was influenced by the T'ang method of martial art.

PUMA Tang Soo Do, like many other TSD organisations intends to preserve the value of the traditional martial art, remembering and training with its values of respect, discipline, self-control, and with the aim to live a healthy life.

Although this is a very brief history of Tang Soo Do, there are many descriptions and interesting reads online which depict the movement of this traditional martial art. The following are just some of these:

Tang Soo Do.co.uk
World Tang Soo Do Association
Dragon Tang Soo Do