We give names to people and objects to distinguish between individuals and between objects with different characteristics, and so on. We know immediately that 'Kim Sun Dal' is not the same person as 'Timothy Smith', that 'flora' is different from 'fauna', that a 'stone' and a 'pillow' do not have the same properties.
The act of naming 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 a similar objective. They show our activity and our rank, which helps us identify ourselves as people engaged in a certain activity. Social order would be impossible to maintain without a systematic approach to clothing.
Through naming, football can be distinguished from baseball, Taekwon-do from Judo. Likewise, a judge can be distinguished from a criminal by their clothing and uniforms. Similarly, a general can be distinguished from a soldier.
Unique Uniform for Korean Martial Art
When we wear a uniform, we accept a certain role in society and are obliged to behave appropriately for that uniform.
Our martial art was given the name 'Taekwon-do' to distinguish its technique, philosophical system, spiritual basis, and competition rules from other Oriental martial arts. For the same reason, we have a uniform (dobok) that is unique to Taekwon-do.
Introduction of the current dobok in 1982 by the ITF
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 at the same time reflecting a 'new age' in terms of design.
It eliminates many of the discomforts of other martial arts uniforms. It will not, for example, come undone during practice or during a competition.
It has also ensured that one can no longer rely on false practices to create a fake sound through stiffened material.
The dobok is considered a primary necessity during training and competitions, for the following reasons:
- Wearing the dobok should give pride to the student as a practitioner of Taekwon-do
- It reflects the level of technique 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 ranks reflected by the belt provide motivation while maintaining humility
- The dobok is very practical and healthy
- The official dobok distinguishes orthodox Taekwon-Do from its imitators
Parts of the dobok
The dobok consists of a shirt, trousers, and a belt made of synthetic material (polyester-cotton blend). This material is a significant improvement over standard cotton, as it is more durable and at the same time more flexible.
The shirt and trousers must be white in color to symbolize the traditional color of Korean attire. 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 due to its art.
Piping for Dan Holders
Black piping on the edge of the shirt is only worn by black belt holders.
This piping is three centimeters wide and is symbolic of the royal family and members of aristocratic houses during the Koguryo, Baekje, and Silla dynasties.
An international instructor is recognized by the three-centimeter-wide black stripes on both sides of the shirt and trousers.
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