12 Taekwondo Belt Order To Master Your Craft

Taekwondo, A Korean Martial Art, uses a ranking system to gauge a student's progress, also known as the Belt order. Belts typically range from white to black with variations depending on the organization.

The International Taekwondo Federation (ITF) and World Taekwondo (WT) utilize slightly different ranking systems. The belts mentioned here are from the World Taekwondo Belts ranking system. 

Starting with white, the beginner learns foundational skills and Taekwondo etiquette. As they progress through colored belts like yellow, green, and blue, they refine techniques, gain confidence, and develop self-defense abilities.

Advanced colored belts like red and black stripes mark mastery of fundamental skills and prepare students for the demanding black belt level. Black belt levels are divided into "Dan" ranks, typically from 1st to 9th. Each Dan represents deepening knowledge, skills, and leadership qualities.

White Belt

In World Taekwondo (WT), the white belt signifying the 12th Geup in the belt ranking system, marks the very first step on the exciting path of martial arts mastery.

By diligently mastering the fundamentals at this level, students pave the way for a successful and rewarding martial arts journey. Here are the Key Learnings that are imparted to the students at this level.

  • Basic Techniques: Students focus on mastering basic stances, blocks, punches, and kicks. Emphasis is placed on proper form, coordination, and power generation.
  • Etiquette and Discipline: Respect for instructors and fellow practitioners is paramount. Students learn proper bowing etiquette, classroom conduct, and self-discipline.
  • Physical Conditioning: Building a strong physique is essential for effective Taekwondo practice. Students participate in physical conditioning exercises to enhance their strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular endurance.
  • Terminology: Introduction to Taekwondo terminology, including Korean commands and names of techniques.

To advance to the yellow belt (11th Geup), students must demonstrate proficiency in all aspects of white belt training. This includes:

  • Consistent and accurate execution of basic stances, blocks, punches, and kicks.
  • Adequate level of strength, flexibility, and stamina to participate in training sessions.
  • Observance of traditional Taekwondo etiquette and respect towards instructors and fellow students.
  • Understanding of basic Taekwondo terminology and concepts.

Yellow Belt

Having successfully navigated the 12th Geup, students proudly wear the yellow belt, signifying the 11th Geup in World Taekwondo.

This level marks a period of continued growth, solidifying the foundation laid in the previous stage and expanding technical knowledge. Here are the learnings gained by the students at this level.

  • Refining Techniques: Students further refine their execution of basic techniques, focusing on precision, speed, and power.
  • Advanced Combinations: Introduction to basic combination techniques, integrating blocks, punches, and kicks into cohesive movements.
  • Self-defense Applications: Exploration of practical self-defense applications of Taekwondo techniques.
  • Basic Forms: Learning the first Taekwondo form (Poomsae), a sequence of movements demonstrating technical proficiency and self-control.
  • Theoretical Knowledge: A deeper understanding of Taekwondo history, philosophy, and safety principles.

Earning the Orange belt (10th Geup) requires demonstrating mastery of the yellow belt curriculum. This includes:

  • Consistent and accurate execution of all yellow belt techniques with improved speed and power.
  • Proficiency in performing basic combination techniques with proper timing and coordination.
  • Demonstrating a basic understanding of self-defense applications of Taekwondo techniques.
  •  Accurate and fluent execution of the learned Poomsae.
  • Sound understanding of Taekwondo history, philosophy, and safety regulations.

Orange Belt

After solidifying their foundation in the yellow belt stage, students proudly don the vibrant orange belt, signifying the 10th Geup in World Taekwondo.

This level marks a period of significant growth and challenge, pushing students to refine their skills and delve deeper into the world of Taekwondo. Here are the Key Learnings at this level. 

  • Advanced Techniques: Introduction to more complex kicking and punching techniques, including side kicks, roundhouse kicks, and back kicks.
  • Footwork and Movement: Development of agile footwork and dynamic movements to enhance mobility and agility.
  • Power Development: Building greater power in techniques through proper breathing and biomechanics.
  • Intermediate Forms: Learning new Taekwondo forms, requiring greater coordination and memory skills.
  • Self-Defense Applications: Further exploration of self-defense scenarios and applying learned techniques in practical situations.
  • Leadership Qualities: Introduction to leadership principles and practicing assisting lower-ranked students.

Earning the Green Belt (9th Geup) requires mastering the Orange Belt. This includes demonstrating the following.

  • Consistent and accurate execution of all orange belt techniques with improved power and speed.
  • Demonstrating agility and control through various footwork drills and movements.
  • Controlled application of power in techniques, demonstrating proper breathing and biomechanics.
  • Accurate and fluent performance of both learned Taekwondo forms.
  • Applying self-defense techniques effectively in simulated scenarios.
  • Demonstrating initiative and leadership qualities while assisting lower-ranked students.

Green Belt

The green belt, signifying the 9th Geup in World Taekwondo, marks a significant milestone on the path to martial arts mastery.

This stage is characterized by embracing new challenges, further refining existing skills, and developing a deeper understanding of the art. Here are the Key Learnings of this Belt. 

  • Advanced Techniques: Students explore more sophisticated kicking and punching variations, including spinning kicks, jump kicks, and advanced hand techniques.
  • Sparring Fundamentals: Introduction to sparring, focusing on footwork, timing, distance control, and delivering controlled attacks and defences.
  • Advanced Forms: Learning complex Taekwondo forms, demanding greater coordination, memory, and physical stamina.
  • Leadership Development: Continued practice in assisting lower-ranked students and assuming leadership roles in-class activities.
  • Theoretical Knowledge: A deeper understanding of Taekwondo philosophy, ethics, and competition rules.

Advancing to the Purple Belt (8th Geup) requires demonstrating mastery of the green belt by demonstrating. 

  • Consistent and skilled execution of all green belt techniques with precision, speed, and power.
  • Effective application of sparring skills, demonstrating proper footwork, timing, and control.
  • Accurate and fluid performance of all learned Taekwondo forms.
  • Exemplary leadership skills and willingness to assist and mentor lower-ranked students.
  • Comprehensive understanding of Taekwondo philosophy, ethics, and competition rules.

Purple Belt

The purple belt signifies the 8th Geup level in World Taekwondo. This stage serves as a bridge between the foundational skills developed in the lower ranks and the advanced techniques explored in the higher levels. 

It demands a deep commitment to training, refined execution, and a growing understanding of the art's philosophy. Here are this belt's Key Learnings.

  • Technical Refinement: Students hone their existing skills to a higher level, emphasizing precision, power, and fluidity in their movements.
  • Advanced Sparring: Introduction to more complex sparring strategies, including counter-attacks, combinations, and footwork variations.
  • Self-defense Applications: Advanced self-defense scenarios are explored, requiring students to adapt and apply their skills in dynamic situations.
  • Leadership and Mentorship: Students take on more responsibility, mentoring lower-ranked students and fostering a positive training environment.
  • Theoretical Depth: A deeper exploration of Taekwondo philosophy, ethics, and history, promoting a well-rounded understanding of the art.

The Blue Belt can be earned by demonstrating mastery of the Purple Belt, which requires:

  • Flawless execution of all purple belt techniques with superior speed, power, and control.
  • Demonstrating advanced sparring skills, including effective counter-attacks, combinations, and footwork strategies.
  • Ability to adapt learned techniques to various self-defense scenarios and apply them effectively.
  •  Showing initiative and serving as a role model for lower-ranked students, fostering a positive training environment.
  • Comprehensive understanding of Taekwondo philosophy, ethics, and history, demonstrating a deep respect for the art's values.

Blue Belt

The vibrant blue belt, signifying the 7th Geup in World Taekwondo, marks a pivotal stage in a student's martial arts journey. 

This level represents a significant step forward from the foundational skills mastered in the earlier ranks, demanding increased dedication, technical refinement, and exploration of advanced concepts. Here are the learnings and characteristics associated with this level. 

  • Mastery of complex kicking and punching techniques, including spinning kicks, jump kicks, and advanced hand techniques with greater power and speed.
  • Focusing on footwork, timing, distance control, and delivering controlled attacks and defences while sparring.
  • Learning and practicing advanced Taekwondo forms, requiring increased coordination, memory, and physical stamina.
  • Beginning to take on leadership roles, assisting instructors and leading lower-ranked students in drills and exercises.
  • Expanding understanding of Taekwondo philosophy, ethics, and history, and developing respect for the tradition and values of the art.

The Students must demonstrate mastery of the Blue Belt before they move up to the Blue Belt Sr. (6th Geup) by:

  • Consistent and accurate execution of all blue belt techniques with improved speed, power, and control.
  • Effective application of basic sparring skills.
  • Demonstrating proper footwork, timing, distance control, and controlled attacks and defences.
  • Accurate and fluent performance of both learned Taekwondo forms.
  • Demonstrating willingness and initiative to assist instructors.
  • Sound understanding of the theoretical aspects of Taekwondo.

Blue Belt Sr.

The blue belt senior, signifying the 6th Geup in World Taekwondo, represents an important  benchmark on the path to martial arts mastery.

This stage is characterized by refining advanced techniques, exploring sparring strategies, and taking on leadership roles within the Taekwondo community. Here are this stage's Key Learnings.

  • Mastering complex kicking and punching variations, including jumping kicks, spinning kicks, and advanced hand techniques.
  • Refining sparring skills with an emphasis on timing, distance control, counter-attacks, and developing individual strategies.
  • Learning and performing challenging Taekwondo forms with high levels of precision, fluidity, and power.
  • Taking on significant roles in assisting and mentoring lower-ranked students, and fostering a positive training environment.
  • Deep understanding of Taekwondo philosophy, ethics, history, and competition rules, serving as a role model for others.

To earn the Brown Belt (5th Geup) the students must demonstrate the following:

  • Flawless execution of all blue belt techniques with superior speed, power, control, and dynamic movements.
  • Advanced sparring skills, strategic thinking, effective counter-attacks, and well-developed individual strategies.
  • Execution of complex Taekwondo forms with exceptional precision, fluidity, and power, showcasing control and focus.
  • Significant leadership responsibilities, mentoring lower-ranked students, and actively contributing to the training environment.
  • Displaying the Comprehension of the Theoretical Knowledge Learned. 

Brown Belt

Proudly worn by accomplished practitioners, the brown belt signifies the 5th Geup level in World Taekwondo. This stage marks a significant transition from advanced proficiency to leadership and refinement. 

Students at this level are expected to demonstrate mastery of technical skills, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the art's philosophy. The Key Learnings for this stage are:

  • Technical Refinement: Continuously refine existing techniques to a level of near perfection, emphasizing power, speed, and precision.
  • Sparring Mastery: Develop and refine individual sparring strategies, effectively utilizing advanced techniques, counter-attacks, and footwork variations.
  • Leadership Development: Take on leadership roles in class, assisting instructors, mentoring lower belts, and fostering a positive training environment.
  • Self-defense Expertise: Analyze and respond effectively to various self-defense scenarios, showcasing adaptability and controlled application of techniques.
  • Theoretical Enrichment: Continuously expand knowledge of Taekwondo philosophy, ethics, and competition rules, becoming a valuable resource for others.

The requirements for advancement to the Brown Belt Sr. (4th Geup) are the following:

  • Near-perfect execution of all brown belt techniques with perfect form, power, speed, and dynamic movements.
  • Displaying exceptional sparring skills, utilizing advanced strategies, counter-attacks, and footwork variations with strategic awareness.
  • Exhibit exemplary leadership qualities.
  • Ability to analyze and respond effectively to various self-defense scenarios with controlled application of advanced techniques.
  • Deep and comprehensive knowledge of Taekwondo's theoretical aspects. 

Brown Belt Sr.

The brown belt senior (4th Geup) in World Taekwondo represents the pinnacle of technical proficiency and a stepping stone towards black belt mastery. 

Students who achieve this rank are not only skilled technicians but also leaders and mentors within the Taekwondo community. Here are the learnings one undertakes at this level. 

  • Technical Refinement: Continuous refinement of existing techniques to an almost flawless level, prioritizing power, speed, and precision.
  • Sparring Mastery: Development and implementation of personalized sparring strategies, incorporating advanced techniques, counter-attacks, and effective footwork.
  • Leadership Responsibility: Taking on significant leadership roles, assisting instructors, guiding lower belts, and fostering a positive training environment.
  • Advanced Self-Defense: Analyzing and responding effectively to diverse self-defense scenarios, demonstrating adaptability and controlled application of advanced techniques.
  • Deepening the Understanding of Taekwondo's theoretical aspects. 

Earning the Red Belt 3rd Geup requires demonstrating complete mastery of the brown belt senior curriculum. This includes:

  • Flawless execution of all brown belt techniques with exceptional power, speed, and control. 
  • Mastery of sparring, utilizing advanced strategies, counter-attacks, and footwork variations with strategic awareness and adaptability.
  • Demonstrating exemplary leadership qualities
  • Ability to effectively analyze and respond to various self-defense scenarios with controlled application of advanced techniques and strategic thinking.
  • Possessing a deep and comprehensive understanding of the theoretical aspects of Taekwondo. 

Red Belt

Adorned by students who have diligently climbed the Taekwondo ladder, the red belt (3rd Geup) signifies a critical juncture on the path to black belt mastery in World Taekwondo. 

This stage marks a transition from refining advanced techniques to exploring the deeper philosophies and leadership principles embedded within the art. At this stage, the Students:

  • Polish their advanced kicking and punching techniques, emphasizing precision, control, and power generation.
  • Deepen the understanding of sparring strategies, incorporating advanced tactics, feints, and deceptive movements.
  • Master complex Taekwondo forms, demanding heightened focus, stamina, and coordinated movements.
  • Take on increased leadership responsibility, guiding lower belts and fostering a positive training environment.
  • Exploring the philosophical and ethical foundations of Taekwondo, and understanding its impact on personal development.

Before the students can earn the Black Belt J. (2nd Geup) the students must:

  • Showcase mastery in the form and application of all red belt techniques with exceptional power, speed, and control.
  • Display advanced sparring skills, utilizing effective strategies, feints, deceptive movements, and adaptability.
  • Perform complex Taekwondo forms with superior precision, fluidity, and power, with complete control and focus.
  • Embody leadership qualities by effectively guiding lower belts.
  • Possess a  solid understanding of Taekwondo philosophy and its ethical principles, and apply them to personal development and leadership.

Black Belt Jr.

The Black Belt Junior (2nd Geup) in World Taekwondo signifies a crucial milestone on the path to black belt mastery.

This stage marks a transition from advanced proficiency to refining skills, and exploring deeper philosophies. The Students at this stage learn to:

  • Continuously refine advanced kicking and punching techniques, emphasizing precision, control, power generation, and flawless execution.
  • Enhance sparring abilities by incorporating various strategies
  • Master complex Taekwondo forms and demonstrate unwavering control and fluidity.
  • Take on increased leadership responsibility, serving as role models for lower belts
  • Continue their Personal Development by deepening their understanding of the philosophical and ethical foundations of Taekwondo. Develop mental resilience, and learn competition strategies.

Before earning the Black Belt (1st Geup) one must demonstrate:

  • Flawless execution of all Black Belt Junior techniques. 
  • Display advanced sparring skills and the use of advanced strategies. 
  • Perform complex Taekwondo forms with superior precision, fluidity, and power.
  • Demonstrate mental resilience and develop effective competition strategies

Black Belt

The Black Belt (1st Geup) in World Taekwondo marks the culmination of years of dedicated training and unwavering commitment to the art.

The Black Belt (1st Geup) stage represents a pinnacle of technical accomplishment in World Taekwondo. However, the journey continues beyond this point. Here are the Learnings and characteristics associated with this stage. 

  • Continued refinement of all techniques to a level of near-perfection.
  • Develop and implement sophisticated sparring strategies, utilizing a diverse repertoire of advanced tactics.
  • Participate in Taekwondo tournaments, demonstrating superior mental resilience, strategic thinking, and competitive prowess.
  • Serve as role models and mentors for lower belts. 
  • Begin to assist instructors in teaching lower belts, developing teaching skills and sharing knowledge with others.
  • Continue their personal development using the philosophies of the martial arts. 

While there is no official requirement to advance from 1st Geup to Dan ranks in World Taekwondo, there are certain expectations for continued development:

  • Continue to refine existing skills and explore advanced techniques, striving for continuous improvement.
  • Participate actively in Taekwondo tournaments at higher levels.
  • Take on greater leadership roles.
  • Continuously deepen understanding of Taekwondo philosophy and ethics, applying them consistently in life and leadership.
  • Develop strong teaching skills and effectively assist instructors. 

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