Taekwondo Patterns

What Are Patterns?

Patterns (also called Poomsae or Tul) are set sequences of movements that represent an imaginary fight against multiple opponents. Every belt level has specific patterns that students must learn and demonstrate during gradings. Patterns develop technique, balance, coordination, and focus.

Basic Pattern

Belt Level: White Belt | Movements: 20

The first pattern every student learns. It introduces fundamental stances, blocks, and strikes in a simple linear sequence. Mastering the Basic Pattern builds the foundation for all patterns that follow.

Key techniques: Low block, middle block, front punch, front stance, walking stance

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1st Pattern - Chon-Ji

Belt Level: Yellow Tag | Movements: 19

Chon-Ji means “Heaven and Earth” and represents the creation of the world. The pattern introduces the turning kick and combination techniques.

Key techniques: Low block, middle block, front punch, front kick, turning

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2nd Pattern - Dan-Gun

Belt Level: Yellow Belt | Movements: 21

Named after the legendary founder of Korea. This pattern introduces the high block and knife-hand techniques.

Key techniques: High block, knife-hand strike, front punch, rising block

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3rd Pattern - Do-San

Belt Level: Green Tag | Movements: 24

Named after the patriot Ahn Chang-Ho. Introduces side kicks and back fist techniques.

Key techniques: Side kick, back fist, outer forearm block, high punch, reverse punch

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4th Pattern - Won-Hyo

Belt Level: Green Belt | Movements: 28

Named after the monk who introduced Buddhism to the Silla Dynasty. Introduces more complex stances and combinations.

Key techniques: Side punch, circular block, fixed stance, inward knife-hand

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5th Pattern - Yul-Gok

Belt Level: Blue Tag | Movements: 38

Named after the great philosopher Yi I. This is a significant step up in complexity with 38 movements.

Key techniques: Hooking block, double forearm block, elbow strike, palm strike

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6th Pattern - Joong-Gun

Belt Level: Blue Belt | Movements: 32

Named after the patriot Ahn Joong-Gun. Introduces more advanced hand techniques and combinations.

Key techniques: Twin fist upset punch, upper elbow strike, X-fist pressing block, back fist side strike

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7th Pattern - Toi-Gye

Belt Level: Red Tag | Movements: 37

Named after the scholar Yi Hwang. One of the most technically demanding pre-black belt patterns.

Key techniques: W-shape block, circular block to the temple, back fist strike, double forearm push