Tang Soo Do Belt Color System

10'th Gup = White ~~~ 9'th Gup = White + One Stripe
8'th Gup = Orange ~~~ 7'th Gup = Orange + One Stripe
6'th Gup = Green ~~~ 5'th Gup = Green + One Stripe ~~~ 4'th Gup = Green + Two Stripes
3'rd Gup = Red ~~~ 2'nd Gup = Red + One Stripe ~~~ 1'st Gup = Red + Two Stripes

The colors of belts worn in Tang Soo Do are related to the art's philosophy of the life of humankind.

Asian cultures use symbols to express the human experience. Specific colors are used to symbolize the goals, ideals, and ethics which are central to our training. Those colors are:

WhiteWinterPurity, innocence, potential
GreenSpringGrowth, advancement, flowering
RedSummerActive, Yang, ripening
BlueAutumnMaturity, Um, harvest

Traditionally, in Korea, there were just four colors. However, orange was added in 1975 as an additional step for motivation between white and green belts.

Tang Soo Do Uniform (Do Bok)

The uniform, or training suit, is properly titles Do Bok. Do Bok is a composite word combining "Do" (way of life) with "Bok" (apparel/clothing). Since the Do Bok is what you wear when you practice to "Do" or way, its symbolism, care, and meaning are very important.

There are similarities between the "Do Bok" of today, and the traditional clothing of ancient Koreans. In modern times, the white color symbolizes purity, respect and reverence for life, and a commitment to the Moo Do code of conduct and way of life.

Action is a result of one's thought processes. Also, one's outside appearance, and internal attitudes, are strongly linked. When one looks their best, one feels confident, and good, also.

With the above in mind, always come to class with your Do Bok clean, pressed, and with the proper trim for your rank. You are a representative of the art and what it stands for. Tang Soo!