Poomsae

🥋 What is Poomsae in Taekwondo?

Poomsae (품새) means “forms” in Taekwondo.
They are pre-arranged sequences of stances, blocks, strikes, and kicks performed in a set pattern.

Purpose of Poomsae

• Teach correct technique, balance, and rhythm.

• Build discipline, focus, and mental strength.

• Prepare students for belt promotion tests and competitions.

In Exams

• Each belt has a specific poomsae to perform for promotion.

• Beginners practice Taegeuk Poomsae (1–8).

• Black belts practice Koryo to Ilyeo.

In Tournaments

• Players perform poomsae with accuracy, power, and spirit.

• Judges score on stances, techniques, breathing, speed, strength, balance, and presentation.

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🥋 Poomsae by Belt Grade (WT & IT Standard)

Color Belts (Geup Ranks)

• 10th Geup – White Belt: No formal poomsae, basic movements (Kibon drills).

• 9th Geup – White Belt with Yellow Stripe: Taegeuk Il Jang (1st Form).

• 8th Geup – Yellow Belt: Taegeuk Il Jang (1st Form).

• 7th Geup – Yellow Belt with Green Stripe: Taegeuk Ee Jang (2nd Form).

• 6th Geup – Green Belt: Taegeuk Sam Jang (3rd Form).

• 5th Geup – Green Belt with Blue Stripe: Taegeuk Sa Jang (4th Form).

• 4th Geup – Blue Belt: Taegeuk Oh Jang (5th Form).

• 3rd Geup – Blue Belt with Red Stripe: Taegeuk Yuk Jang (6th Form).

• 2nd Geup – Red Belt: Taegeuk Chil Jang (7th Form).

• 1st Geup – Red Belt with Black Stripe: Taegeuk Pal Jang (8th Form).

Black Belts (Dan / Poom Levels)

• 1st Dan / 1st Poom: Koryo.

• 2nd Dan / 2nd Poom: Keumgang.

• 3rd Dan / 3rd Poom: Taebaek.

• 4th Dan: Pyongwon.

• 5th Dan: Sipjin.

• 6th Dan: Jitae.

• 7th Dan: Chonkwon.

• 8th Dan: Hansu.

• 9th Dan: Ilyeo.

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Tournament Usage (WT/IT Competitions)

• Color belt competitors perform Taegeuk poomsae according to their belt level.

• Black belt competitors perform higher poomsae (Koryo to Ilyeo) depending on their Dan rank.

• In major WT competitions, referees select poomsae from an official list.

Quick Examples

• Exam: A Green Belt (6th Geup) must perform Taegeuk Sam Jang for promotion.

• Exam: A 1st Dan must perform Koryo.

• Tournament: A Yellow Belt may perform Taegeuk Il Jang.

• Tournament: A 2nd Dan may perform Keumgang.