International Taekwondo Federation

One of the two major Taekwon-Do organisations, the other being the World Taekwondo Federation or WTF. The International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) was founded on March 22nd, 1966, by General Choi Hong Hi, who was central to the modern systemization of Taekwon-Do.

Ranks

The ITF has a unique ranking system. It consists of five solid color belts (Gups), five intermediate color belts (indicated by a stripe around both hanging ends of the belt), and nine degrees of Black. Each color has a specific philosphical meaning (striped belts retain the meaning of the belt color). They are as follows:

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• 10th Gup (white) Symbolizes purity and innocence of any knowledge of Taekwon-Do
• 9th Gup (white with yellow stripe)
• 8th Gup (yellow) Symbolizes the earth into which the seed of knowledge is planted
• 7th Gup (yellow with green stripe)
• 6th Gup (green) Symbolizes the tree of knowledge sprouting from the ground
• 5th Gup (green with blue stripe)
• 4th Gup (blue) Symbolizes the Heavens toward which the tree of knowledge is reaching
• 3rd Gup (blue with red stripe)
• 2nd Gup (red) Symbolizes danger. The student knows enough to do a great deal harm, but they cannot completely control it.
• 1st Gup (red with a black stripe)

Black belt symbolizes imperviousness to darkness and fear. The are nine degrees (dan) of Black. They are organized into skill levels:

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• 1st-3rd Dan (Novice) These are allowed to be assisant instructors
• 4th-6th Dan (Expert) These are allowed to be instructors
• 7th-8th Dan (Master)
• 9th Dan (Grand Master)

Up to 6th dan, all ranks require the student to perform a test of all skills and knowledge up to their rank to be promoted. Above 6th dan ranks maybe awarded with consent of the president without a test. However if the recipient desires a test may be administered. 9th degree (being the highest) can only be awarded when the governing body examines and reaches a consensus.

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