태권도사의 윤리적 쟁점들(1961년~2025년)

Ethical Issues in the History of Taekwondo(1961~2025)

The purpose of this study is to historically examine ethically problematic topics and i ncidents in the history of Taekwondo from 1961 to 2025, and to propose possible solutions and alternatives. First, the excessive issuance of Dan certificates (1961-1962): From 1945 through the 1960s, Taekwondo faced intense factional rivalry as dojangs (training halls) proliferated throughout Korea. During this period, each dojang issued its own Dan certificates, creating significant ethical and structural issues within the Taekwondo community. Second, the conflict between the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) and the Korea Taekwondo Association (KTA) (1969-1971): General Choi Hong-Hi, who developed Taekwondo under President Syngman Rhee's regime, and Kim Un-Yong, who developed it under President Park Chung-Hee’s regime, both sought to expand Taekwondo using the influence of their respective governments. In the process, Choi became disillusioned with the Park regime and eventually decided to withdraw, leading to a major schism in the Taekwondo world. Third, child abuse and sexual violence (2005 2025): There have been cases where Taekwondo instructors physically or sexually abused children attending their dojangs. Since instructors are often seen as absolute authority figures, children typically do not resist or report such abuse. Instructors must treat children as individuals and with the respect they deserve, guiding them with ethical responsibility. Fourth, match-fixing and biased judging (2013-2016): Match-fixing and biased decisions by coaches and referees have caused student-athletes and their parents to face difficulties in continuing their athletic careers or pursuing education. In an extreme case, a parent committed suicide due to a biased judgment by a referee. Athletes must compete with skill and fair play, and referees must render decisions with fairness, integrity, and accuracy.