Korean Dictionary

How to say "Taekwondo (hobby)" in Korean

Taekwondo (hobby)” in Korean is 태권도 (pronounced "Taegwondo").

태권도

Taegwondo

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IntermediateHobbies & Leisure

Usage & Context

Taekwondo is Korea's national martial art and a popular leisure activity. Many Koreans practice taekwondo from childhood through adulthood.

Example Sentence

태권도를 배우면 체력과 자신감이 길러져요.

Learning taekwondo builds physical fitness and confidence.

How to use 태권도 naturally

Quick answer

The Korean word for “Taekwondo (hobby)” is 태권도, romanized as Taegwondo.

Usage tip

Learn this word together with a complete Korean sentence. Meaning often depends on particles, politeness level, and word order.

Common mistake

Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 태권도.

Pronunciation Guide

"Tae" sounds like "tay" as in "take". "Gwon" is a bit tricky: it's like "gwun" or "gwon" where 'g' is voiced, and 'won' rhymes with "on" but with a 'w' sound. "Do" sounds like "doe" as in "dough". The stress is fairly even, but "gwon" might have a slightly stronger emphasis.

More Example Sentences

Talking about a long-term hobby or childhood activity.

어릴 때부터 태권도를 배웠어요.

I've been learning Taekwondo since I was little.

Stating a factual cultural point.

태권도는 한국의 국기입니다.

Taekwondo is Korea's national sport.

Discussing the benefits of Taekwondo for children beyond just physical training.

아이들이 태권도 학원에 다니면서 예의를 배워요.

Children learn manners while attending Taekwondo academies.

Cultural Context

Taekwondo is more than just a martial art in Korea; it's a fundamental part of childhood for many. Kids often attend "태권도 학원" (Taekwondo academies) after school, where they not only learn self-defense but also discipline, respect, and build character. It's a source of national pride, often featured in international events and cultural showcases. Many K-dramas might show characters with a background in Taekwondo, highlighting their strength or discipline.

Editorial note

We review entries like 태권도 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.

Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.

Common Phrases

태권도 배우러 가자.

Let's go learn Taekwondo.

태권도 몇 단이에요?

What dan (belt level) are you in Taekwondo?

태권도 시범단

Taekwondo demonstration team

Related Expressions

무술

Musul

Martial arts

유도

Yudo

Judo

합기도

Hapkido

Hapkido (another Korean martial art)

도장

Dojang

Martial arts training hall (like a dojo)

More Hobbies & Leisure Words

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