We give names to people and objects to distinguish between individuals and between objects with different properties, and so on. We immediately know that ‘Kim Sun Dal’ is not the same person as ‘Timothy Smith’, that ‘flora’ is different from ‘fauna’, and that a ‘stone’ and a ‘pillow’ do not have the same properties.
Giving names is a classification process through which we create order in the universe and our world. In the absence of naming, the world would be chaotic and progress would be impossible.
Our doboks have the same purpose. They show our activity and rank, which helps identify us as people engaged in a particular activity. Social order would be impossible to maintain without a system of clothing.
Through naming, football can be distinguished from baseball, and Taekwon-do from Judo. Likewise, a judge can be distinguished from a criminal by their clothing and uniforms. In the same way, a general can be distinguished from a soldier.
Unique uniform for Korean martial arts
When we wear a uniform, we accept a particular role in society and are obliged to conduct ourselves appropriately for that uniform.
Our martial art was given the name ‘Taekwon-do’ to distinguish its techniques, philosophical system, spiritual foundation and competition rules from those of other Oriental martial arts. For the same reason, we have a uniform (dobok) that is unique to Taekwon-do.
Introduction of the current dobok by the ITF in 1982
The International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) introduced this dobok in 1982. It is the product of many years of research and development. This ‘new’ dobok retains the aspects of the traditional dobok while simultaneously reflecting a ‘new age’ in terms of design.
It eliminates many of the inconveniences of other martial arts uniforms. It will not, for example, come loose during practice or a competition.
It also ensures that people can no longer rely on false practices to create a fake sound by using stiffened material.
The dobok is considered a primary necessity during training and competitions for the following reasons:
- Wearing the dobok should give the student pride as a practitioner of Taekwon-do
- It reflects the level of technical and cultural development in Taekwon-do that the individual has achieved
- The style of the dobok is symbolic of the heritage and tradition of Taekwon-do
- Kup and dan grades, reflected by the belt, provide motivation while simultaneously maintaining humility
- The dobok is highly practical and healthy
- The official dobok distinguishes orthodox Taekwon-Do from its imitators
Components of the dobok
The dobok consists of a shirt, trousers and a belt made from synthetic material (a polyester-cotton blend). This material is a significant improvement over standard cotton because it is more durable while also being more flexible.
The shirt and trousers must be white to symbolize the traditional color of Korean clothing. Additional decoration, piping, lettering and designs are not permitted.
It is very important to always keep the dobok clean, wear it correctly and treat it with the respect it deserves as part of the art.
Piping for dan holders
Black piping along the edge of the shirt is worn only by black belt holders.
This piping is three centimeters wide and symbolizes the royal family and members of the aristocratic houses during the dynasties of Koguryo, Baekje and Silla.
An international instructor is recognized by the black stripes, three centimeters wide, on both sides of the shirt and trousers.
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