Belts & Grades

Tae Kwon Do implements a system of grades similar to that in most forms of Martial Art. It is based on a series of coloured belts that correspond to different grades of Kups. Each belt colour has a significance and associated meaning.

The beginner is classed as a 10th Kup or white belt. As each grading is achieved, the Kup grade decreases through to 1st Kup (Red belt, black tag). The student can then progress onto Black belt grades or Dans. The first level of black belt is 1st Dan rising to a Grand Master at 9th Dan.

Kup Grades

Kup Belt Colour Meaning 10th White Signifies innocence, that of a beginning student with no previous knowledge of tae Kwon Do 9th Yellow Tag   8th Yellow Signifies the earth where the seed of Tae Kwon Do is planted, as the foundation for Tae Kwon Do is being laid. 7th Green Tag   6th Green Signifies the plant's growth as Tae Kwon Do skills begin to develop 5th Blue Tag   4th Blue Signifies the Heaven towards which the plant matures into a towering tree as training in Tae Kwon Do progresses 3rd Red Tag   2nd Red Signifies Danger, cautioning the the student to exercise control and warning the opponent to stay away 1st Black Tag

Dan Grades

Dan Belt Colour Meaning 1st Black Opposite of white, therefore signifying the maturity and proficiency in Tae Kwon Do, also indicates the wearer's imperviousness to darkness and fear 2nd Black   3rd Black   4th Black   5th Black   6th Black   7th Black   8th Black   9th Black