Grading Syllabus

The Taekwon-Do system of rank is divided up into 19 stages.  10 of these are colour belt stages, known as Kup and 9 belong to black belt level, known as Dan.  Colour belt level begins at 10th Kup (white belt), the entry level, and works toward 1st Kup (red belt black tag).  Black belt level begins with 1st Dan, and works toward the ultimate attainment in Taekwon-Do, 9th Dan Grandmaster.

Like many aspects of Taekwon-Do, the grading system holds a key significance.  The number 3 is regarded as the most esteemed number in oriental tradition.  The Chinese character for three represents the heavens, mortals and the earth.  It is said that he who is successful in living in harmony with all three will aspire to be king.  Also when the number 3 is multiplied by itself you get 9, the highest possible rank in Taekwon-Do.

Below are the various stages of the colour belts.  To view the grading criteria for reaching each level, simply click on the appropriate belt.  You begin your practice of Taekwon-Do as a white belt.

Grading Belts