In the world of Taekwondo, it is essential to use the correct titles when referring to instructors. Understanding the proper names and designations not only shows respect but also reflects your knowledge of the martial art. In this article, we will explore the various titles used for Taekwondo instructors, providing clarity on what to call them and why it matters.
Key Takeaways:
- The correct term for a Taekwondo instructor is “sabom.”
- To show respect, add the suffix “nim” when addressing an instructor, making it “sabomnim.”
- The term “sensei” is not appropriate in Taekwondo, as it belongs to the Japanese martial art of Karate.
- Instructors’ ranks in Taekwondo are identified through the black belt system, with higher ranks holding titles such as “master” or “grandmaster.”
- Additional titles in Taekwondo include “kwanjangnim” for the owner of the training hall and “dojunim” for the creator or founder of a specific style.
Taekwondo Instructor Ranks
In Taekwondo, instructors can be identified by their rank. The rank system in Taekwondo uses Sino-Korean numbers, similar to those used for Forms/Poomsae. The ranks for black belt instructors typically start at first degree black belt (il dan) and progress to higher degrees such as second degree (ee dan), third degree (sam dan), and so on. The fourth degree black belt is often referred to as the first “master” rank. Higher ranks, such as fifth degree (oh dan), sixth degree (yuk dan), and seventh degree (chil dan), are considered advanced and may be referred to as “kwan jan nim” or grandmaster. Eighth degree (pal dan) and ninth degree (gu dan) are higher ranks, with the ninth degree sometimes referred to as “chong kwan jang nim” or Chief Master.
| Rank | Title |
|---|---|
| 1st Degree Black Belt | Instructor |
| 2nd Degree Black Belt | Instructor |
| 3rd Degree Black Belt | Instructor |
| 4th Degree Black Belt | Master |
| 5th Degree Black Belt | Grandmaster |
| 6th Degree Black Belt | Grandmaster |
| 7th Degree Black Belt | Grandmaster |
| 8th Degree Black Belt | Higher Rank |
| 9th Degree Black Belt | Chief Master |
Additional Taekwondo Instructor Titles
When it comes to Taekwondo, there are more than just the primary instructor titles. Different roles within the martial art come with their own designations. For instance, some Korean schools have a poom system in place for practitioners who are under 15 years old. Poom grades are considered lower than dan (black belt) grades and are recognizable by a black belt with a red stripe.
Another significant title in Taekwondo is “dojunim,” which refers to the person who created or founded a specific style of Taekwondo. This individual is highly respected for their contributions to the art form and plays a pivotal role in shaping its practice and philosophy.
In addition, the person who owns the training hall where Taekwondo is practiced is known as “kwanjangnim.” They provide a dedicated space for practitioners to train, learn, and grow in their martial arts journey.
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Poom Grades | Lower ranks for young practitioners under 15 years old, denoted by a black belt with a red stripe. |
| Dojunim | The person responsible for creating or founding a specific style of Taekwondo. |
| Kwanjangnim | The owner of the training hall where Taekwondo is practiced. |
The Importance of Teacher Roles in Korean Martial Arts
In Korean martial arts, the role of teachers is crucial in guiding and instructing practitioners on their martial arts journey. Different teacher titles hold specific responsibilities and play essential roles in the development of students’ skills and knowledge.
One of the primary teacher roles in Korean martial arts is known as a kyosanim. The kyosanim conducts one-on-one sessions with practitioners, providing personalized instruction and imparting the necessary skills and techniques. They play a pivotal role in molding the students’ abilities and helping them progress in their martial arts training.
At a higher level, the sabomnim holds the title of master instructor. This position is responsible for overseeing the kyosanims and their students. The sabomnim provides guidance and supervision, ensuring the quality and consistency of training throughout the martial arts school.
In some cases, the owner of the training hall where the martial art is practiced is referred to as the kwanjangnim. The kwanjangnim holds the responsibility of managing the facility and creating an environment conducive to learning and growth. They provide the necessary resources and support for both instructors and students.
Lastly, the dojunim is the individual responsible for creating or founding a specific style of Korean martial arts. They are the visionary behind the martial art system, shaping its principles, techniques, and philosophy. The dojunim’s influence extends beyond a single school, often impacting the entire martial arts community.
The diverse roles of teachers in Korean martial arts demonstrate the hierarchical structure and dedicated support system within the martial arts community. Each title holds its own significance, contributing to the overall development and success of practitioners.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when addressing instructors in the context of Taekwondo, it is crucial to utilize the appropriate titles. It is essential to refrain from using the term “sensei,” which is common in Karate but not applicable in Taekwondo. Instead, the correct title for an instructor in Taekwondo is “sabom.” To demonstrate respect, it is customary to add the suffix “nim” when addressing an instructor, thus becoming “sabomnim.”
In Taekwondo, instructor ranks are associated with the black belt system. As practitioners progress in their training, they attain higher degrees, such as second degree (ee dan) and third degree (sam dan). At the fourth degree, they are considered the first “master” rank. Advanced ranks, like fifth degree (oh dan) and sixth degree (yuk dan), may be addressed as “kwan jan nim” or grandmaster. The eighth degree (pal dan) and ninth degree (gu dan) are higher ranks, with the ninth degree often referred to as “chong kwan jang nim” or Chief Master.
Besides these primary instructor titles, there are additional designations in Taekwondo. For instance, young practitioners who have not yet reached the age of 15 may have poom grades, denoted by a black belt with a red stripe. The person responsible for founding a particular style of Taekwondo is called “dojunim.” Moreover, the owner of the training hall is referred to as “kwanjangnim.”
FAQ
What is the correct title for an instructor in Taekwondo?
The correct title for an instructor in Taekwondo is “sabom.” It is important to show respect by adding the suffix “nim” when addressing them, making it “sabomnim.”
What ranks do black belt instructors hold in Taekwondo?
Black belt instructors in Taekwondo can hold ranks ranging from first degree (il dan) to higher degrees such as second degree (ee dan), third degree (sam dan), and so on. The fourth degree black belt is often referred to as the first “master” rank. Advanced ranks, such as fifth degree (oh dan), sixth degree (yuk dan), and seventh degree (chil dan), may be referred to as “kwan jan nim” or grandmaster. Higher ranks, such as eighth degree (pal dan) and ninth degree (gu dan), are considered higher and the ninth degree is sometimes called “chong kwan jang nim” or Chief Master.
Are there additional titles for instructors in Taekwondo?
Yes, there are additional titles in Taekwondo associated with different roles. The person responsible for creating or founding a specific style of Taekwondo is called “dojunim.” Additionally, the person who owns the training hall where Taekwondo is practiced is known as “kwanjangnim.”
What are the primary teacher roles in Korean martial arts?
The primary teacher of a Korean martial art, including Taekwondo, is called “kyosanim.” They conduct one-on-one sessions and provide instruction and guidance. The “sabomnim” is the master instructor who oversees all the kyosanim and their students. In some cases, the owner of the training hall where the martial art is practiced is referred to as “kwanjangnim.” Lastly, the “dojunim” is the person responsible for creating or founding a specific style of Korean martial arts.