Taekwondo Belts: History, Rankings, and What Each Color Represents
Ever wonder what those colorful belts in Taekwondo actually mean? Whether you’re just starting out or simply curious, each color of taekwondo belts actually holds deep meaning and marks a student’s progress in skill, discipline, and character.
In this article, we’ll dive into the fascinating history behind the taekwondo belt rank system, explore the differences between ITF and WTF ranking orders, and break down what each belt color represents on your martial arts journey. Let’s get started!
History of Taekwondo Belts
Even though taekwondo officially started in South Korea in the 1950s, the idea of using belts to show a student’s progress actually comes from Japan. Back then, the early taekwondo masters — called kwans (or dojos) — like Hong Choi, took inspiration from the Judo belt system and adapted it for taekwondo.
But where did Judo get the idea from? Interestingly, it traces all the way back to a traditional Japanese board game called Go, which is kind of like chess and uses a ranking system for players. The original Judo belts had six colors: white, yellow, green, blue, red, and black.
This simple yet brilliant idea quickly caught on and became the base for ranking in many other martial arts, including taekwondo.
ITF vs. WTF Belt Order Differences
In the world of taekwondo, not every school follows the exact same belt colors or order and that’s mainly because there are different styles. The two biggest organizations are ITF and WTF. Both are legit, but they do a few things differently especially when it comes to belt ranks.
A. ITF
The ITF (International Taekwon-Do Federation) belt system is very structured and focuses heavily on discipline, technique, and traditional forms. Students move through a set order of belt colors, usually starting from white and progressing through yellow, green, blue, red, and finally black.
Each rank requires students to demonstrate not just physical skills, but also knowledge of theory, stances, and patterns (called tul in ITF).
The journey through ITF belts is about mastering control, precision, and self-discipline, with each promotion being a reflection of your overall improvement in both mental and physical aspects of taekwondo.
B. WTF
The WTF (World Taekwondo, formerly World Taekwondo Federation) belt system shares similarities with ITF in terms of color progression, but it places more emphasis on sparring, agility, and competitive performance.
While patterns (poomsae) are still part of the training, there’s a strong focus on preparing students for tournaments and Olympic-style sparring. The belt colors may include additional steps like orange, purple, or brown, depending on the school.
Progressing through WTF belts often means developing quick reflexes, powerful kicks, and being ready for full-contact matches, making it a great fit for those who enjoy the competitive side of martial arts.
What Each Taekwondo Belt Color Represents
In taekwondo, each belt color actually has a meaning behind it. The colors tell the story of your journey, from total beginner to confident martial artist. Here’s what each color represents:
1. White Belt
The very beginning. White symbolizes a blank slate which means you’re brand new, full of potential, and ready to learn.
Just like a seed hasn’t sprouted yet, this belt shows you’re starting your taekwondo journey with an open mind.
2. Yellow Belt
Now you’ve got your feet on the ground. Yellow represents the earth, where your roots are starting to grow.
This is usually the first belt after white, and it shows that you’re starting to build your foundation. At this stage, you’ll also start learning your first poomsae (a set pattern of movements).
3. Orange Belt
Orange is the final step in the beginner level. You’ve been training consistently and learning new techniques.
This belt shows steady progress and marks your transition into more challenging taekwondo material, including your second poomsae.
4. Green Belt
Green means growth, just like a plant starting to rise from the ground. This is the first belt of the intermediate level, and students at this rank have usually been training for close to a year. It’s also the point where sparring or self-defense training begins.
5. Purple Belt
Purple is tough. It represents struggle and perseverance. Many students hit a motivation dip here.
You’ve been training for a while now, and this belt pushes you to stay focused. But with consistent training and encouragement, you’ll push through and get ready for the advanced level.
6. Blue Belt
Blue belt is the final belt in the intermediate stage. You’re learning more complex techniques now and getting closer to advanced material. Like purple, it can feel a bit tough, but it’s just another step before you level up again.
7. Brown Belt
Brown belt students often feel a renewed sense of energy which means you’re entering the advanced program.
You’ll start learning more advanced poomsae and sharper techniques. This belt shows you’ve built a strong foundation and are now sharpening your skills further.
8. Red Belt
Red stands for danger or alertness. Well, not in a bad way, but to remind you that your techniques are strong and must be used with control and respect.
Red belt students continue refining their moves and take on even more challenging forms like advanced Taegeuk poomsae.
9. Black Tip Belt
This is the last step before black belt. You’ve been training for over two years and have learned seven poomsae already.
Now, you’ll learn the eighth and final poomsae and complete your final techniques as a color belt. You’re almost there!
10. Recommended Black Belt
Half red, half black — this belt shows you’re right on the edge of becoming a black belt.
It’s a powerful symbol of how far you’ve come and how close you are to reaching the next big milestone. At this stage, you’re fine-tuning everything for the black belt test.
11. 1st Degree Black Belt
After passing a major test, which includes poomsae, technique execution, and board breaking, you earn the rank of 1st Dan (or Poom).
This is a huge achievement and marks the end of your beginner journey and the beginning of your lifelong taekwondo path as a black belt. You’re not done learning and you’ve just unlocked a whole new level!
Master the Moves, Earn the Colors!
The taekwondo belts system isn’t just about climbing ranks but also symbolizes the patience and values that martial arts teach. From white to black, every color tells a story of where you’ve been and where you’re headed next.
So, no matter what color is around your waist today, wear it with pride because every step forward is a victory worth celebrating.
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FAQ
What is the order of belts in Taekwondo?
It usually goes: White, Yellow, Green, Blue, Red, Black (may vary by school or federation).
How long does it take to get each belt in Taekwondo?
On average, 2–3 months per belt with regular training. Black belt takes about 3 years.
